London: Clean Rivers!
Programs restore London’s rivers.
Restoration programs
The Catchment Partnerships in London (CPiL) brings together communities and stakeholders committed to the restoration of local rivers. The association that presides over this organization, Thames21, mobilizes about 7000 volunteers across London! To restore rivers to their natural state, the ecological group fights against pollution, limits invasive species, and facilitates access to them. To do this, it is setting up teams for each London district. The Brent River and Community Restoration project is redeveloping the Brent River with native aquatic plants, wetlands and by removing wooden flower beds, as well as making the river banks more attractive. Identical programs are therefore being carried out in London, for the Darent and the Cray. rivers. The participants also work with specialists to reforest the contours of the flows, add heavy timber, and integrate deflectors that control the water flows.
For a greener city
These initiatives regenerate river biodiversity and strengthen the city’s resilience. For example, flood risks are reduced by planting trees and inserting wetlands that absorb rainwater, thereby securing nearby habitats and businesses. At the same time, nature regains its splendor. Kingfishers, birds that feed on fish, have multiplied in the English capital; since 2000, their sightings have increased by 450%! The waterways are also home to more bats and birds, such as the gray wagtail. Then, the restoration of these spaces promotes social inclusion.
Polluted rivers…
The state of English rivers is deteriorating due to human activity. The Environment Agency reports that in 2016, only 6% of them were in good chemical status; in fact, 94% were denatured by sewage discharge, agriculture, and chemicals. Aquatic fauna and flora are all the more disturbed as infrastructures (bridges, weirs) cut off the natural flow of water and hinder the migration of fish. But the consequences do not spare humans. Water quality affects their health and they are subject to increased risks of flooding with climate change.
Sources: Positive News; The Guardian
Crédits Photos : Skiitterphoto/Pexels ; @amduz/Unsplash
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