Nature gives us more than just beautiful views, it gives us clean air, fresh water, and a stable climate. That’s why, this International Day of Biodiversity, we’re looking at how we can give back. This year’s international theme is “Harmony with nature and sustainable development.” It fits perfectly with Affinity Water’s mission to protect biodiversity while continuing to supply clean, safe drinking water to 3.9 million people across the South East and East of England.
How we support wildlife on our sites
In the UK, nature faces growing challenges. That’s why we’re creating wildflower meadows at 22 of our sites, with even more planned over the next few years. These areas are left to grow longer, and are sometimes seeded with wildflowers, too, helping pollinators like bees and butterflies to thrive by providing nectar.
Did you know bees and other pollinators support one in every three bites of food we eat?
As part of our ongoing commitment to nature, we’re working to make at least 40 of our sites better for pollinators like bees and butterflies. This includes adding insect hotels, planting flowers that bloom throughout the year, creating wildflower areas, and setting up places for pollinators to rest and drink. We’ll also be using sound monitors at some sites to track how many pollinators are visiting and which species are there. This will help us see the impact of these changes over time.
Our Biodiversity Team supports every part of our business. From building new projects to long-term planning, we make sure local wildlife and habitats are protected at every step.
Our goal is simple. To create rich habitats for wildlife and make sure nature is considered in every decision we make.
Recently, we visited Stocker’s Lake, one of the sites we proudly own and care for. Once a gravel pit, it’s now a thriving wildlife sanctuary, home to kingfishers, herons, and over 60 species of birds. Walking through this peaceful space reminds us just how important it is to protect and nurture these special places, not just for wildlife, but for local communities too.
Plans for a wilder future
Looking ahead to AMP8 (2025–2030), we’re taking things further. We have a new Biodiversity Performance Commitment alongside our existing environmental targets.
This means:
- Setting aside more land just for wildlife.
- Creating detailed plans to manage and monitor habitats.
- Working with local charities and environmental groups.
- Connecting our sites with nearby protected areas to build stronger ecosystems.
Restoring our precious chalk streams
Did you know these globally rare rivers are right on your doorstep? The UK has 85% of the world’s chalk streams, and most are in southern England. These rivers are rare and fragile. In recent years, we’ve delivered 34 river restoration projects and plan to deliver a further 33 projects in AMP8 across chalk streams in our supply area, helping the rivers to flow naturally and support a wide range of wildlife.
Working with farmers for healthy land and water
Our Catchment Team works hand-in-hand with farmers to bring soil back to life. Healthier soil means more worms, bugs, and microbes, the tiny powerhouses that boost biodiversity. It soaks up rain better, filters out pollution, and helps rivers stay clean. Bonus? It grows stronger crops too. Everyone wins, from the farm to the stream.
Why nature matters to all of us
Nature gives us so much – clean air, fresh water, and a stable climate. Protecting biodiversity protects what matters to you, from the water in your tap to the food on your plate.
Be part of our journey
We’re proud of the work we’re doing, but there’s always more to do. Whether it’s planting wildflowers, restoring rivers, or teaming up with local groups, every action helps.
Biodiversity isn’t a tick-box, it’s a long-term commitment. Each meadow we plant, river we restore, or partnership we build helps nature bounce back. By working together and staying focused on the future, we can make lasting changes that support wildlife, protect water sources, and leave the environment better than we found it.
Want to help nature thrive? Learn more and explore how you can support biodiversity in your community: Affinity Water biodiversity page