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Environment

Natural Thames


Our Thames Vision 2050 seeks to create a clean river, free of sewage, waste and other pollution, supporting greater biodiversity and recreational use. Valued for its clean air, natural flood defence, wildlife and as a carbon sink. Find out more.
Working together to accelerate progress towards decarbonising the Thames, the Port of London Authority (PLA) and a coalition of terminal and vessel operators and supporting stakeholders, have today published a plan for a Net Zero future.

The Net Zero River Plan identifies four priority themes to accelerate the move to Net Zero: alternative fuels and infrastructure adoption; clear regulation and legislation, funding, and reliable data.
Further work by water companies to tackle sewage pollution of the tidal Thames is to be fast-tracked in a new collaboration, convened by the Port of London Authority.

A Clean Thames Manifesto, launched in June, promises greater collaborative work with Thames Water and others to combat plastic wet wipes clogging up the river through London.

At the PLA’s request, Anglian Water, Southern Water and Thames Water have committed to work towards reductions in sewage and storm water discharges from overflow points and treatment works, affecting the river between Teddington and the North Sea, faster than previously planned.
A leader in the UK port industry
Our targets and actions to reduce air and carbon emissions, involves monitoring, incentives and roadmaps.
Stewardship
We strive to protect and enhance the ecology of the Thames for the benefit of the animals and people that live along river.
Adapting and Mitigating
As the UK's largest port, we are taking actions towards adapting to a changing climate and minimising our contribution of greenhouse gases.
The PLA's commitment to the Thames
Our efforts to ensure sustainable operations and growth in the tidal river and its estuary.
Managing and Improving
We're working to protect the water quality of the Thames for future generations.
Innovations and Inspiration
We support alternative energy in line with sustainable development, national policy and relevant consents.

Our Campaigns

Putting the Thames at the centre of the region
We work with trusted partners and committed volunteers to help make the Thames Estuary the best it can be for the benefit of the entire community.
Connecting volunteers with clean ups
Cleaning the Thames aims to encourage more litter removal across the foreshore of the Thames Estuary.
Independent environmental indicator
Our programme supports fleet operators in responding to challenges across energy, air and water quality.
Tackling sewage pollution
In a new collaboration, water companies to go faster and further cleaning up the tidal Thames

Policy and Guidance

Guiding and informing our decisions
The Port of London Authority is required by law to maintain and improve the conservancy of the river and estuary. To accomplish this, we have put in place frameworks that inform our decision making to put the environmental health of the Thames at the heart of everything we do.

Key pieces of legislation that are relevant to the PLA and Thames Estuary.

Our guidance documents help minimise impacts on the river and its environment.

We have statutory responsibilities in core areas, including protecting the environment.

More Information


Not found what you are looking for? Check our frequently asked questions or publications archive.

Frequently Asked Questions about the environment of the Thames.

It's vital that the public report environmental issues (pollution or animal in distress) on the tidal Thames.

Our reports and strategies outline our plans to protect and foster the Thames.

We've hosted in person and remote events to discuss developments as we work to improve the Thames.

Help us shape research to improve sustainable management of the tidal Thames.

Contact Us


The environment team will be happy to answer any questions.

Get in touch >>>