The Big Windermere Survey

Level of Investment:

£10,000: citizen science programme sponsorship
£30,000: survey sponsorship
£120,000: annual programme sponsorship

Project Themes:

Project Summary

The Big Windermere Survey is a pioneering community science initiative that produces the largest one-day snapshot of pollution in Windermere. It brings together volunteers, scientists, and professionals to increase understanding of lake health.

Citizen scientists are trained to collect water samples from over 100 locations on Windermere, including the rivers that flow into it. The samples are analysed for nutrient and bacterial concentrations at independent laboratories.  

This innovative programme highlights water quality challenges and pollution hotspots to inform data-driven solutions to reduce pollution and algal blooms and support plant and marine life.

Why is it Needed?

Windermere is an iconic lake of significant ecological importance, the centrepiece of the UNESCO Lake District World Heritage site.

Water quality in Windemere faces challenges from nutrient inputs and bacterial pollution that endanger its ecosystem. By monitoring water quality and involving local communities, this work informs evidence-based solutions to improving lake health and increases community awareness of the challenges.

Environmental outcomes

Improved water quality

Innovative environmental solutions

Social outcomes

Active communities

Healthier Communities

Why invest?

Investing in The Big Windermere Survey supports community engagement and environmental stewardship, drives innovation, and informs data-driven solutions to improving water quality.

The programme aligns with ESG goals and provides tangible evidence of corporate commitment to sustainability.