LONDON, United Kingdom (AFP) — A sea of blue swept through the streets of central London on Sunday as thousands united to demand immediate action for cleaner rivers and oceans. The event, known as The March for Clean Water, attracted notable figures such as environmental advocate and musician Feargal Sharkey, along with adventurer Bear Grylls.
The demonstration was organized by a coalition of environmental groups, including Greenpeace, the Wildlife Trusts, and British Rowing. Protesters called for comprehensive reviews of the water regulatory bodies, specifically Ofwat and the Environment Agency, and urged for tougher penalties on water companies that violate pollution regulations.
River Action estimated the turnout at approximately 15,000 participants, many of whom adorned themselves in blue attire and brought samples of water from local rivers or lakes that held personal significance. The vibrant crowd featured creative costumes, with placards proclaiming slogans such as “Protect Our Waters,” “Stop Polluting Our Seas,” and “Clean Water is a Right.”
The urgency for change has been echoed by the newly elected Labour government, which recently proposed legislation to enhance the regulatory framework. This includes empowering watchdogs to impose stricter penalties, potentially including prison terms, on companies and executives responsible for environmental harm.
A spokesperson from Water UK, the trade association representing the industry, acknowledged the current system’s inadequacies, stating, “The existing framework is cumbersome and fails to effectively protect both citizens and our natural resources. It is essential that we enhance our infrastructure and approach, and we look to Ofwat to lead these changes.”
The march not only spotlighted the critical issue of water pollution but also galvanized public sentiment for swift governmental reform, as activists continue to advocate for the preservation of Britain’s waterways for future generations.
