South West Water Earns Recognition for Biodiversity Work

UK-based utility South West Water, part of Pennon Group, has been shortlisted for the 2025 Biodiversity Challenge Awards for its Upstream Thinking programme. The initiative, launched 15 years ago, focuses on improving water quality and restoring ecosystems by working with farmers, landowners and environmental partners. It represents a nature-based approach to water management that aligns with international priorities for biodiversity protection and climate resilience.

The programme has already improved 144,000 hectares of land, restored 5,000 hectares of peatland and reduced sediment and nutrient run-off into rivers. These interventions have strengthened habitats for priority species, boosted water retention, locked in carbon and reduced downstream treatment needs. The collaborative model highlights how utilities and environmental organisations can work together to address shared global challenges.

"We're thrilled to have been shortlisted in the Biodiversity Challenge Awards and are pleased to see Upstream Thinking recognised alongside other impactful projects,” said Ciara Dysart, Assistant Project Lead at South West Water.

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