The Clean Water Sports Alliance in action

On 30 April 2024, seven national governing bodies - Angling Trust, British Triathlon, British Rowing, GB Outrigger, Paddle UK, Royal Yachting Association and Swim England - united over the growing issue of water pollution, forming the Clean Water Sports Alliance. 

The ask was clear: healthy and nature-rich spaces for everyone to enjoy.

The Alliance set out three priorities:
● Further and faster action on pollution. Improving the health of UK waters by 2030
● Enable people to make real-time informed choices about where and when to participate
● Recognition of all recreational water users across decision making and policy

One year on, the CWSA now represents 11 sports and continues to grow in strength and influence.

Over the past year, the Alliance has engaged directly with water companies, shared unified data, and met with ministers and officials to ensure that the voices of millions of recreational water users are reflected in the industry's future.

Milestones from a landmark year

Voices of the Alliance

Sara Sutcliffe, RYA CEO:
 “We’re proud to be one of the founding members of the Clean Water Sports Alliance. It’s grown into something bigger than we could have imagined, and it’s been a real privilege to learn from the other members, as we tackle this issue together. It remains a fantastic example of the power of collaboration in sport and we’ll continue to ensure that our voices will be heard.”

Andy Salmon, Swim England CEO:
“Swim England is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our fellow sports who all share a passion for cleaning up our waterways on behalf of the millions of people who enjoy our sports each year. We’re stronger together and we can make a real difference.”

Ruth Daniels, British Triathlon CEO:
 “The doors the Clean Water Sports Alliance has opened to advance and raise the profile of the issues facing all our sports has been phenomenal. Each member of the group brings a different perspective and capability, allowing us to spread our experience across multiple conversations, from Government to commercial partners, through to our communities and athletes. The Alliance is crucial for us to continue ensuring triathlon has a future in open water swimming and we will continue to advocate for action from all stakeholders involved.”