Declining water levels:
Water is essential for life and for many forms of sport and physical activity. But as temperatures rise and rainfall patterns change, water availability is becoming an increasingly important issue for London.
Recent evidence suggests that water levels are already under pressure. The Times reported that around one in five of England’s rivers are significantly lower than expected, while research from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology suggests that southern England could experience longer-term periods of lower-than-expected water levels.
England is also experiencing drought conditions. Recent government monitoring shows continued dry weather and below-average rainfall in parts of the country, while water levels in reservoirs and rivers around London are also below the levels normally expected at this time of year.
What does this mean for sport?
For Londoners, lower water levels could have a direct impact on the activities they can take part in.
The River Thames, River Lee and sites such as Welsh Harp Reservoir support activities including rowing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding. If water levels fall too far, access to these activities can become more difficult or, in some cases, unsafe.
We are already seeing an impact closer to home. At Hollow Ponds boating lake in Leytonstone, parts of the lake have dried up during recent heatwaves, affecting the ability of people to use the boats and enjoy the space.
This is about more than sport. Local waterways and boating lakes provide opportunities for people to spend time outdoors, be active and enjoy their local environment. If these opportunities become less reliable, it could reduce the range of activities available to Londoners, particularly in communities where affordable local opportunities are important.
Water quality matters too
Lower water levels can also create challenges for water safety and quality. Warmer, slower-moving water can increase the risk of algal blooms and the growth or concentration of harmful bacteria and other pathogens.
This could affect activities where people are more likely to come into contact with the water. Some forms of training or participation may need to be restricted when water quality is poor.
What can we do?
We cannot control how much rain falls, but there are things we can influence.
Improving water quality, increasing awareness of water safety and monitoring conditions can help people continue to use London’s waterways safely. The Mayor of London has also launched London’s first 10-year Clean Rivers and Waterways Plan, which aims to improve the capital’s rivers and waterways and make them safer and more enjoyable for people.
There is also a wider opportunity for the sport and physical activity sector.
As climate pressures increase, organisations may need to consider:
- Monitor water conditions by understanding how changing water levels and water quality could affect activities and facilities.
- Plan for disruption by having alternative activities or locations available when water-based activities cannot safely take place.
- Improve water safety by ensuring participants understand the risks associated with changing water conditions.
- Protect local waterways by supporting efforts to improve water quality and the natural environment.
- Reduce climate pressures by continuing to reduce emissions and pollution that contribute to longer-term environmental change.
Climate change is changing not only how hot or cold it feels outside, but whether some of the places where Londoners exercise and enjoy being active remain usable.
For water-based activities, keeping London’s waterways healthy and accessible will increasingly be part of keeping Londoners active.