Freshwater and coastal wetlands
Clean rivers, lakes, streams, ponds and wetlands are integral to the survival of life on earth.
Better protection for freshwater
The RSPB works to secure better protection for freshwater and coastal wildlife and habitats across the UK. It does this by influencing Government policy which affects these habitats.
This includes water quality, water abstraction and natural flood management, as well as issues which affect the wider freshwater catchment area. This is known as a Catchment-Based Approach.
Our rivers and wetlands need help
Despite progress in some areas, the condition of freshwater and coastal habitats in the UK are largely poor.
This is impacting on the future of the wildlife that depends on them, which face serious decline and extinction without action.
Flooding and natural flood management
The RSPB supports natural methods to reduce flooding which in turn can create wildlife rich habitats and help counter the impact of climate change.
These include naturally slowing rainwater with hedges and woodland, creating more ponds and reconnecting flood plains.
Wildlife of freshwater and coastal wetlands
From bogs and springs which feed upland streams to mudflats and marshes at the mouth of an estuary - the great variety of freshwater and coastal habitats in the UK support a wealth of different plants and animals.
How we’re helping
Across the UK the RSPB is demonstrating the best ways to work with and protect freshwater and wetlands. This is helping nature and wildlife recover as well as seeing wider societal benefits, including climate change adaption.