Overview

• Over 40 protests are planned across UK beaches, rivers, and lakes, with thousands of participants expected to paddle out in a call for action against sewage pollution.
• The demonstrations coincide with the start of the official bathing season and an Independent Water Commission review on water industry reform.
• In 2024, UK waters saw over 500,000 sewage discharges lasting approximately 4.7 million hours, with 8,704 spills during the bathing season alone.
• Surfers Against Sewage reported 1,853 illness cases linked to sewage pollution last year, with 79% of medical professionals attributing these illnesses to water contamination.
• Protesters are demanding systemic reform of the privatized water sector, citing chronic underinvestment, regulatory failures, and prioritization of profits over public health and the environment.