Media

Severn Trent has unveiled ambitious plans to improve biodiversity across the Midlands, with the launch of its Great Big Nature Boost campaign.

Looking after water means looking after nature and the environment too. That’s why the water company has committed to:
 
•    Revive 12,000 acres of land (an area bigger than the size of Gloucester);
•    Plant 1.3 million trees;
•    Restore 2,000km of rivers across the Severn Trent region by 2027.

The company also has ambitious plans to revive peat bogs and moorland, and to plant wildflower meadows, all of which will not only help make the Midlands more diverse but will also help the quality of raw water in rivers and streams.
 
To achieve these ambitious plans, Severn Trent is joining forces with the RSPB, National Trust, Moors for the Future Partnership, the Rivers Trust, National Forest, regional Wildlife Trusts and other conservation groups. Working together, these partnerships will bring big improvements for outdoor spaces, as well as helping to reduce the use of chemicals and cut carbon emissions.
 
Liv Garfield, Severn Trent CEO, said: “I’m incredibly excited by our Great Big Nature Boost project – it’s a fantastic way for us to give something back to the communities we serve while helping to improve the quality of the water we treat and supply to our customers.
 
“The improvements we’re committed to making will bring huge environmental benefits for the landscape, habitat and wildlife across the Midlands. Investing in nature-based solutions, rather than concrete and chemicals is a huge win-win for everyone.”
 
The campaign kicks off with two fun-packed activity days on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th October at Carsington Water in Derbyshire, before heading over to Tittesworth Water in Staffordshire on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th October and finishing at Draycote Water in Warwickshire on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th October.
 
Each weekend will be joined by Great Big Nature Boost partners, where families will be able to take part in socially distanced nature trails, get creative with nature-based activities and be in with the chance of winning their very own tree to take home.
 
Back in March, the water company announced plans to invest £1.2bn to improve the environment, help sustainability and to support its customers. The Great Big Nature Boost forms part of these plans, alongside its Triple Carbon Pledge commitment and further backs up its ambition to be a socially responsible business.