Restoring Welsh Rivers

The Archbishop of Wales has called a summit in November to highlight the plight of Welsh waterways.

The two-day summit, which takes place in Cardiff in November, will seek to agree solutions for changing the way our waterways are managed in Wales.

The initiative was first raised at the April meeting of the Governing Body, at which key partners in the campaign set out the priorities:

• Water quality (sewage and microplastics).
• Nature-based solutions.
• Soil and agriculture.
• Presenting the science.
• Food and water.

But why the Church? Archbishop Andrew is clear. “It is the role of the Church to speak out on issues of fairness and justice. As we serve those around us, we do so as Christians. We are not an NGO nor an arm of government. We are compelled to speak out on issues where we believe something is out of place.

“Our rivers are dying. Water companies are illegally pumping raw sewage into them. Our farming communities are underpaid and undervalued; intensive farming practices, promoted by unsustainable food production systems, are poisoning rivers

“All of us – including the industry, regulators, government and local authorities - must play a part in halting this indefensible abuse of the most essential element of life. Our summit will seek to create a consensus and momentum for change.”