South Australia’s marine and freshwater environments are vital natural resources, providing recreation and pleasure, as well as being essential to our economy and fishing industry. Our estuaries are important to the maintenance of fish stocks and our wetlands are a vital habitat for birds and other species.

Minimising of impacts to freshwater and marine environments is a challenge for Transport SA’s business. Protecting the quality of South Australia’s rivers, streams and groundwater is essential, not only to provide quality drinking water, but water for industry, recreation and conservation.

Infrastructure construction and maintenance, vehicle emissions and particles from road and vehicle wear and tear, contribute to the many human activities that affect our marine and freshwater environments.

Unfortunately our freshwater environment has been significantly degraded by past practices. Our marine waters, which contain some of the worlds most diverse and significant marine habitats, are also potentially at risk from pollution from shipping such as oil spills and the introduction of marine pests and pollution from land based activities. Stormwater (rainwater runoff) runs directly into our waterways and oceans bringing with it litter, garden waste, material washed off roads and other pollutants.

• Marine transport – Water Quality Impacts
  
• Land transport – Water Quality Impacts
  
• Case Study: Southern Expressway Project
  
• What the Community Can Do
  
• Useful Sites