Fulham Reach BC (FRBC) takes a holistic approach to the environment, believing in “the health of our space that’s the place for our health”. Their work to make a meaningful impact on the environment gained them a Commendation in the Environmental Sustainability category of the 2024 British Rowing Awards.
Water quality citizen science
FRBC partners with FreshWater Watch and River Action UK to conduct innovative citizen science water quality testing for nitrate, phosphate and e.coli levels, highlighting critical issue of river pollution.
The club openly shared findings from their regular testing on their environmental impact dashboard to raise awareness of the dire state of the UK’s rivers, attracting global attention in the run up to the 2024 Boat Race.
CEO Adam Freeman Pask says, “We have engaged over 230 people in testing and have supported several rowing clubs such as Putney Town RC and Eton Excelsior RC to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of water quality and the need for collective action.”
River clean-ups
FRBC hosts regular river clean-up events in collaboration with the Port of London Authority, involving over 200 volunteers from the club as well as the wider community. These efforts have resulted in the removal of nearly 1,000 kg of rubbish, significantly improving local water quality and contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
Electric launch engines
FRBC is transitioning its coaching launch fleet to electric power, aiming to eliminate 14,000 kg of CO2 emissions annually. They are currently working on installing an electric boat charging station on their pontoon to charge their own fleet and also act as an emergency refuge for other clubs.
Wildlife protection
FRBC collaborates with Thames Seal Watch to help protect the nearly 4,000 seals residing in the tidal Thames through community-led habitat restoration projects and rescue efforts that actively contribute to the conservation of local wildlife.
Community outreach
Freeman-Past adds, “Our environmental efforts are intertwined with our extensive community outreach, engaging close to 1,500 participants annually through initiatives such as State School Rowing, Free Water Sport Weeks, and the Boats Not Bars programme.
“These activities not only promote the sport of rowing but also educate participants on the importance of environmental sustainability, reinforcing our role as a positive environmental role model.”
