A river has become the first in England to be granted rights after councillors approved a charter to protect a cherished waterway in Sussex.
In an exciting and groundbreaking decision, Lewes District Council have agreed to recognise the Rights of the River Ouse - which flows into the sea on England's south coast - paving the way for the Ouse to become the first in England to have its legal rights recognised by a local authority.
The decision represents a major step in the UK’s environmental movement, acknowledging the growing international trend of granting rivers legal rights. The initiative follows successful models in New Zealand, Canada and Colombia where rivers have been recognised as living entities with intrinsic rights to exist, rights to flow, thrive and be free from pollution and the appointment of guardians to act on their behalf.
The charter recognises the River Ouse’s right to flow, to be free of pollution, and to have native biodiversity. It comes amid a water pollution crisis in England, where many rivers are being inundated with sewage.
“This is a historic moment for environmental protection in England,” said Emma Montlake, co-director of the Environmental Law Foundation. “By supporting the rights of rivers, Lewes district council has set a precedent that could transform the way we safeguard our rivers.”
Approving the charter is only the first step, though. The hard part will be implementing it. “This is just the beginning of a journey to give the river a voice and ensure its wellbeing for future generations to come,” said Montlake.
Supporters can follow developments and learn more at LoveOurOuse