Across Wales, paddlers are already stepping up to protect nature. Through the Big Paddle Cleanup, the Check Clean Dry biosecurity approach and the everyday guidance contained within the Paddlers Code, we have the tools to make a meaningful difference. Caring for our waters starts with us.

The Big Paddle Cleanup: Small Actions with Big Impact

The Big Paddle Cleanup has become one of the most inspiring examples of paddlers working together to protect local waterways. The figures show just how significant this is. In 2023 more than 2,600 paddlers took part across Wales and England, filling around 1,800 sacks with litter, including thousands of bottles, cans and food wrappers.

In 2024 participation grew even further. A total of 4,000 volunteers collected 1,888 sacks of rubbish, removing everything from everyday litter to trolleys, fridges and fire extinguishers that had been dumped in rivers and lakes.

Plans for future cleanups continue to expand, with renewed cleanup kits and wider partnerships designed to help more clubs and paddlers take part.

Paddlers are uniquely placed to make this impact. We can reach the bends, backwaters and overgrown margins that others cannot. We spot the plastic caught under branches, the cans left stranded on mudbanks and the debris pushed into quiet corners. Removing it protects wildlife, improves water quality and restores the natural beauty of the places we love.

Check Clean Dry: Stopping the Spread of Invasive Species

Alongside pollution, one of the most serious threats to our waterways is the spread of invasive non native species. These organisms can travel unnoticed on boats, clothing or equipment. Invasive species cost the UK almost two billion pounds a year and can disrupt ecosystems, block waterways, damage native wildlife and even cause irritation to skin and respiratory systems.

The Check Clean Dry routine is a simple and effective way to prevent the movement of invasive species from one body of water to another. It involves checking equipment for mud, plants or organisms, cleaning everything thoroughly after each paddle and allowing all kit to dry completely before using it elsewhere.

Biosecurity packs have already been distributed across Wales to support this work. These include brushes, sponges and cloths to help paddlers clean their equipment properly.

Small habits like this have a significant environmental impact. They help protect rivers, lakes and coastlines by ensuring that paddlers do not unknowingly contribute to the spread of harmful species.

The Paddlers Code: Everyday Guidance That Makes a Difference

Beyond organised events, paddlers can make a lasting positive impact simply by following the values promoted in the Paddlers Code. Paddle Cymru’s Environmental Policy highlights the importance of reducing waste, raising awareness of pollution and invasive species, and helping paddlers minimise their impact on wildlife and habitats.

The Paddlers Code encourages behaviours that protect nature and strengthen relationships on the water. Respect wildlife and sensitive habitats. Share space with others, including anglers and swimmers. Leave no trace at access and egress points. Report pollution or hazards where needed. Follow local guidance to protect spawning beds, nesting birds and other vulnerable areas.

Repeated by thousands of paddlers across Wales, these simple actions make a long-term difference to the health of our blue spaces.

Paddle Cymru’s Commitment to Environmental Leadership

Environmental leadership is becoming central to Paddle Cymru’s work. Strengthening environmental, safety and participation messaging is one of the organisation’s key priorities for 2026 to 2027.

Paddle Cymru also supports national initiatives such as Clear Access, Clear Waters, and works closely with partners to provide consistent environmental and safety messaging across Wales.

Caring for our waters is not a side project. It is part of the identity of paddlesport and is embedded in the long-term vision for Wales’s waterways.

How You Can Help Protect Wales’s Blue Spaces Today

You do not need to wait for a campaign window to take action. Every paddler can make a difference today. Join or organise a Big Paddle Cleanup. Commit to following the Check Clean Dry routine every time you paddle. Live the values of the Paddlers Code by respecting nature, being considerate of fellow water users and leaving access points better than you found them.

Protecting the places we paddle is not only environmental work. It is a way of honouring the rivers, lakes and coastlines that give us joy, adventure and connection.

Useful Links

Big Paddle Cleanup

How to take part, request kits and map your cleanup activity. https://clearaccessclearwaters.org.uk/bigpaddlecleanup/

Check Clean Dry

Biosecurity guidance and resources to help stop the spread of invasive species.
https://www.nonnativespecies.org/check-clean-dry/

Paddle Cymru Environmental Policy

Learn more about environmental commitments and best practice.
https://www.paddlecymru.org.uk/