Attending the March for Clean Water in central London was an eye-opening and profoundly emotional experience. The rally, which drew 8,000 participants from across the UK, was a powerful manifestation of public frustration and collective action aimed at urging the government to take meaningful steps toward tackling water pollution. For me, as someone tasked with telling the stories of nature conservation, this march offered invaluable insights into how the digital platforms we manage can be used to amplify environmental issues and rally support for the urgent work still ahead. 

The march was a stark reminder of the precarious state of our rivers and seas. It was impossible to ignore the raw, palpable determination expressed by those in the crowd, which included environmental campaigners, activists, farmers, swimmers, scientists, and families, all united in their demand for cleaner water and accountability from the water industry. The march, organised by 140 different groups, was not just about sewage spills, though these remain a key issue; it was also about a broader, systemic failure of our infrastructure, agriculture, and policy to protect our waterways and wildlife. It was about the very future of our natural world and the legacy we are leaving for future generations. 

The facts behind the march were stark: in 2023 alone, there were 3.6 million hours of raw sewage discharges into UK rivers and seas. This represents a shocking escalation in pollution, with an average of 1,271 spills occurring every single day—compared to 825 spills in 2022. The consequences of this pollution are far-reaching, not just for the environment but for public health. Human waste, wet wipes, sanitary products, and other harmful debris enter our waterways, posing risks to wildlife, swimmers, and anyone who depends on these waters for recreation or livelihood. 

As I joined the crowd near the Albert Embankment, I felt the energy of the event—unified, passionate, and resolute. There was a distinct sense of frustration, but also of hope that this march could spark lasting change. I had the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from people like Sarah Walsh, an open-water swimming coach from Cornwall, whose livelihood is directly affected by the state of the seas. Her words resonated with me as I thought about the broader consequences of water pollution, not just for our wildlife, but for local economies and individual lives. 

The march itself felt like a moment of collective action, of people from all walks of life standing together to demand better stewardship of our natural resources. The presence of influential figures like Chris Packham, whose calls for rapid action were heard loud and clear, underscored the deep sense of urgency surrounding the issue. It was clear that the public is tired of inaction, tired of hearing empty promises, and demanding that the government and water companies step up with real solutions.

The rally, held in Parliament Square, featured a diverse array of voices from across the environmental sector. Liz Bonnin, president of the Wildlife Trusts, spoke about the importance of connections—both ecological and human. She reminded us that the health of our waterways is interconnected with the broader health of our natural ecosystems and communities. I found myself reflecting on the vital role that digital communications can play in strengthening these connections. By amplifying stories of success and sharing moments of solidarity, we can help maintain momentum and inspire others to take action. 

One of the most powerful moments for me came when young speakers took the stage. It was both humbling and inspiring to hear the voices of young activists, many of whom are working with Wildlife Trusts, calling for systemic change. Ramandeep Nijjar’s words stuck with me: "One single story told the right way can create waves of change." This is a message I take to heart in my role as a digital communicator. The way we tell stories about nature—whether about polluted rivers or the restoration of wetland habitats—has the power to inspire action, spark debate, and shift public opinion. 

The march also brought attention to the role that farming practices play in water quality. Martin Lines, chair of the Nature Friendly Farming Network, highlighted the need to support farmers who are trying to implement more sustainable practices but are often hindered by a lack of financial support and systemic barriers. As we move forward, I believe it’s essential that digital campaigns recognize the complexity of the water pollution problem—acknowledging not just the failings of the water industry but also the challenges facing farmers and other sectors that impact water quality. 

From a communications perspective, this march reaffirmed the importance of sharing not just the problems, but the solutions. As Liz Bonnin suggested, we need to focus on the success stories—whether it’s communities working together to restore their local rivers, or innovative technologies being developed to reduce wastewater discharges. We also need to highlight the interconnectedness of water, soil, and biodiversity, and advocate for more holistic approaches to water management. 

At Shropshire Wildlife Trust, we’re already working to restore wetlands, protect vulnerable species, and educate the public about the importance of clean water. But as I stood in Parliament Square listening to the speakers, I realized that our work must be part of a larger movement. It’s clear that the solutions to water pollution are not going to come from a single policy, but from a collective effort—a push for systemic change that spans government, industry, farming, and communities. 

As I reflect on the march and the powerful voices that filled Parliament Square, I feel a renewed sense of determination to use the platforms I manage to raise awareness, share stories of hope, and keep pushing for the change our waterways desperately need. The march demonstrated that people are willing to fight for their rivers and seas. Now, it’s time to turn that momentum into meaningful action. 

The journey doesn’t end with a march; it continues through our daily work, our communications, and our shared commitment to safeguarding the water systems that are the lifeblood of our ecosystems. The government has heard the call. It’s now up to us all—activists, farmers, policymakers, and communicators—to ensure that clean water remains at the heart of the political agenda.