Pouring Coffee Down Drains Leads to Hefty Fines and Environmental Concerns

As of October 2025, the issue of people dumping coffee and other liquids down public drains has come to the forefront. Earlier this year, Burcu Yesilyurt from Kew, west London, was fined £150 by the Richmond-upon-Thames Council for disposing of her coffee in a public road gully.

While the council has since canceled the fine, scientists now say there are valid reasons to avoid pouring coffee and other liquids down drains. Unlike household sinks, many surface water drains lead directly to local rivers and streams without any treatment. Even a single cup of coffee can have a negative impact on aquatic life, as caffeine and other compounds can be toxic to fish and other organisms.

Moreover, the milk and sugar often found in coffee can be highly polluting to waterways. When these substances enter the water, bacteria feed on them and use up oxygen, leading to a drop in oxygen levels that can suffocate fish and other creatures. Experts warn that the combined impact of many people regularly dumping small amounts of coffee and other liquids can quickly add up and cause significant environmental damage.

In addition to the environmental concerns, pouring coffee down drains can also lead to blockages in the drainage system. The coffee grounds, milk, and sugar can act like glue, trapping other debris and causing slow-running drains, bad odors, and even complete blockages. This can be a costly issue for local authorities to address.