The Thames Barrier, originally designed to last until 2030, was opened 40 years ago this week. It is one of the largest movable barriers in the world and is operated and maintained by the Environment Agency. The Barrier and the other flood defences across the wider estuary protect 125 square kilometres of central London, encompassing 1.42 million […]
Reported by the BBC High visitor numbers are turning one of Britain’s most scenic lakes green, researchers say. A report funded by the UK space agency suggests a link between peak tourist periods and algal blooming at Windermere in the Lake District. Algal blooming is caused by warm temperatures and nutrients, and can make the […]
A coalition of businesses and corporate sustainability programmes have launched the UK Net Zero Business Census. Delivered by the UK Business Climate Hub (UKBCH), this is a new nationwide research initiative focused on setting a clear standard for the private sector’s role in achieving the UK’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The UK Net […]
Last weekend (3-6 May), the Rivers Trust ran its Big River Watch weekend – a simple citizen science activity that helps build a picture of river health across the UK and Ireland. The app and survey will remain open to collect data year-round. So, if you run a volunteer group or you’re interested in continuing […]
A significant international collaboration to support peatland restoration in the North Pennines National Landscape has been announced by German environmental association, the Nature And Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU). The €1.1 million investment will be used to restore valuable peatlands in the North Pennines, helping to promote better global climate regulation. Healthy peatlands are vital for […]
Illuminating piece in The Guardian Amsterdam is home to 45,000 sq metres of ‘blue-green’ roofs, which absorb rainwater and allow it to be used by building residents to water plants and flush toilets You might visit Amsterdam for its canals, and who could blame you, really. But the truly interesting waterways aren’t under your feet […]
Severn Trent Water has published its Get River Positive annual report. It includes five pledges to make our region’s rivers the healthiest they can be, as quickly as possible. Ensure storm overflows and sewage treatment works do not harm rivers Create more opportunities for everyone to enjoy our region’s rivers Support others to improve and […]
Research has uncovered that nearly half of the world’s estuaries have been directly altered by human activities. Estuaries, vital transition zones between freshwater and marine environments can be called ‘nurseries of the sea’ as not only animals but also humans commonly rely on them for nesting and breeding as well as tourism, fisheries, and recreational […]