Essence of life

©Diana Buzoianu/TNC Photo Contest 2022

(Anglian Water)Nature-Based Solutions for Water Management

West Norfolk, United Kingdom

(Anglian Water)Nature-Based Solutions for Water Management
Primary Implementer
Anglian Water
United Kingdom
Nature-based Solutions
Wetland construction
Restoration and conservation

Description

Many interested yet hesitant utilities and regulators cite a lack of evidence that nature-based solutions can deliver water quality and quantity results. Chris Gerrard, Natural Catchment and Biodiversity Manager at Anglian Water, argues that there is sufficient information and utility success stories available for that to no longer be an acceptable excuse.

Anglian Water is the largest water and water recycling company by geographic area in England and Wales, and it is located in a region of the country that receives, on average, a third less rainfall than the rest of England (Anglian, 2019). The company is committed to solving environmental problems at source and water quality threats prompted evaluation of nature-based approaches to water management. Contrary to concerns about the cost-effectiveness of NBS, the Anglian Water case study demonstrates how these programs can actually save money for business and customers. Their experience showcases the critical role of customer engagement and how strengthening the relationship between utilities and the general public can create avenues to prioritize natural capital approaches.

References

An Osprey snatches a Rainbow Trout from a small Scottish Lochan.

©Liam McBride/TNC Photo Contest 2022