The Guardian announced a significant partnership with Channel 4 and media agency OMD on February 23, 2026, to support the launch of a new three-part factual drama that focuses on the ongoing sewage crisis in the United Kingdom. The campaign aims to elevate this crucial issue to the forefront of public discussion by utilizing the Guardian's extensive range of digital, audio, and print platforms. In addition to traditional media, the partnership includes innovative elements such as interviews with individuals who inspired the characters in the drama and a unique 'reading-time sewage calculator' designed to inform readers about the volume of sewage released during reading sessions. The series airing on Channel 4 aims to highlight the impactful stories of people affected by the contaminated water crisis and scrutinize the roles of regulatory bodies such as the Environment Agency. With prominent performances by actors including David Thewlis, the drama details the struggles of citizens fighting against a backdrop of environmental neglect and political indifference. The goal is to generate an emotional response while also delivering factual information about the consequences of neglect in the UK's water system. To further amplify the campaign, Channel 4 unveiled a provocative art installation called the Fountain of Filth on London's South Bank, aimed at visually representing the seriousness of the sewage crisis. The Guardian supported this initiative through artistic promotions, including a satirical cartoon encountered by visitors. The initiative underscores the synergy between the two organizations, both committed to public-interest journalism and raising awareness regarding environmental accountability in the UK. This collaboration is part of a larger movement by the Guardian to position environmental issues as urgent matters deserving immediate attention. It has already seen notable successes, garnering millions of page views in the past year focused on river pollution and water contamination coverage. With political dynamics under scrutiny, especially in light of an upcoming by-election, there is speculation on whether this drama could influence public opinion and political action regarding the environment. The creators of the drama hope to evoke a sense of urgency in the audience, pushing the sewage problem back to the top of the national agenda.