Seven National Governing Bodies Unite for Clean Open Water in the UK

The Clean Water Sports Alliance: Uniting for Clean Open Water Across the UK

In a groundbreaking move, seven national governing bodies of water-based sports in the UK have joined forces to form the Clean Water Sports Alliance. This alliance, consisting of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), Angling Trust, British Rowing, British Triathlon, GB Outrigger, Paddle UK, and Swim England, aims to advocate for clean open water across the country.

With almost 450,000 members, elite athletes, and participants relying on UK waters for sport and recreation, the alliance has announced a vision to achieve healthy and nature-rich blue spaces for everyone to enjoy water sports. The issue of water pollution has led these organizations to come together to call for change and protect both the people they represent and the natural world in which they participate.

Pollution from various sources has contaminated UK inland and coastal waters, causing damage to ecosystems and posing health risks to those who engage in water-based activities. Events, training sessions, and activities have been canceled or postponed due to water quality not meeting safety standards.

The alliance has outlined three key priorities, including further and faster action on pollution, enabling real-time informed choices for water-based sports participation, and recognition of all recreational water users in decision-making and policy. They have also put forth three asks for regulators and decision-makers to address the issue of water pollution effectively.

The alliance’s goal is to restore the UK’s blue spaces, free of pollution, and create havens for wildlife while providing safe and enjoyable environments for water sports. By uniting their voices and efforts, these governing bodies are determined to drive positive change and ensure the protection and preservation of clean open water for current and future generations to enjoy.