Alliance of Water-Based Sports Unite for Clean Water Initiative

In a groundbreaking move, British Rowing and six other national governing bodies of water-based sports have joined forces to create the Clean Water Sports Alliance. This alliance, which includes Angling Trust, British Triathlon, GB Outrigger, Paddle UK, Royal Yachting Association, and Swim England, aims to advocate for clean open water across the UK.

With almost 450,000 members collectively, including elite athletes and participants, these organizations are taking a stand against water pollution that has been plaguing UK waters. The pollution not only damages ecosystems but also poses health risks to those who engage in water sports and activities.

The Alliance has set out three priorities to guide its actions: further and faster action on pollution, enabling real-time informed choices for water-based activities, and recognition of all recreational water users in decision-making processes. They are calling on regulators and decision-makers to take action, including adequate funding for monitoring and holding polluters accountable, providing real-time water quality information, and advocating for a shift from ‘bathing waters’ to ‘recreation waters’ in government policy.

The UK has been struggling with poor water quality, ranking near the bottom of the European bathing water quality index. This not only affects human health but also puts immense pressure on biodiversity, costing the UK billions each year.

Members of the Alliance, including British Rowing, British Triathlon, and Swim England, are committed to promoting and protecting clean open water for the benefit of all. They are calling for urgent action to improve the health of UK waters and create safe and thriving environments for water sports and recreation.

By coming together, these sports organizations are sending a powerful message that clean water is essential for the future of their sports and the well-being of all who enjoy water activities. It is time for regulators and decision-makers to listen and take action to ensure that UK waters are clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.