‘Contract between humans and river’: Bristol Avon’s rights enshrined in charter
Summary
A group called We Are Avon organized an eight-day walk along the Bristol Avon river to promote a new river rights charter. This charter, supported by nine local councils and environmental groups, aims to protect the river’s health, allow it to thrive naturally, and involve communities in its care. The initiative is part of a larger movement in the UK to give natural places legal rights and stronger protections.Key Facts
- The Avon pilgrimage involved walking about 100 miles from the river’s source to the sea while doing conservation activities like planting trees.
- The Avon Bioregional Charter of River Rights (ABCRR) was publicly signed on World Rivers Day by councils, environmental groups, and the public.
- The charter recognizes the river’s rights to exist, flow freely, avoid pollution, preserve biodiversity, and be restored naturally.
- Nine councils, including Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol City, and North Somerset, have endorsed the charter.
- River charters are part of a wider national and international movement for giving nature legal and moral rights.
- These charters do not create new laws but aim to guide decision-makers and encourage community stewardship.
- We Are Avon is working to improve cooperation between councils, water authorities, and other organizations managing the river.
- Bath and North East Somerset has appointed a river advocate, and the charter’s principles will influence future climate and nature strategies.
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