CPRE London supports the March for Clean Water on 3rd November

We want to see vibrant and healthy London rivers, so we’re backing the March for Clean Water due to take place in the capital on 3rd November.

A peaceful rally, managed by River Action, aims to channel the need for urgency, collaboration and hope in addressing the problems of unsafe, scarce and polluted water.

The event chimes in with our campaigns to safeguard London’s waterways as places for nature and wellbeing, through our More Natural Capital Coalition*.

We work with local partners to restore wetlands, including rivers and ponds, retrofit sustainable drainage schemes, and integrate wetlands into new development.

CPRE London Director Anna Taylor said there were practical steps Londoners could take to help protect our rivers from storm flooding and pollution.

‘We promote ‘de-paving’, sustainable drainage, and cooling measures,’ she said.

‘That includes helping restore rivers, constructing rain gardens and wetlands, and hedgerow planting, to capture and filter excess storm water.’

Anna added that CPRE London had pioneered the concept of London as a Sponge City – an idea widely referenced in the run up to the Mayoral Election.

‘The Mayor’s commitments to cleaning up rivers are partly a result of our policy to deliver an urgent programme of rain garden construction and wetlands. Both are fundamental to tackling river pollution.

‘That’s why we’ll be lending our support and digging out our walking shoes ready for 3rd November!’

*The More Natural Capital Coalition comprises 20 leading environmental organisations committed to taking action to improve and protect London’s natural environment for people and wildlife.

To find out more about the March for Clean Water, and to register to take part click here.