Protecting the Wye and Usk Rivers: Our Role in the Courtauld Collective Action Project
The Wye and Usk Foundation is a key partner in the Courtauld Collective Action Project, part of WRAP’s Water Roadmap under the Courtauld Commitment 2030. This initiative brings together stakeholders across the food and drink supply chain to tackle water-related challenges in some of the UK’s most critical sourcing areas—including the Wye and Usk catchments.
Why the Wye and Usk?
These iconic rivers are vital to both local ecosystems and the UK’s food production. However, they face serious threats from:
- Nutrient pollution from agriculture
- Sediment build-up
- Algal blooms
- Habitat degradation
Despite being designated Special Areas of Conservation, their ecological status has declined due to long-term nutrient surpluses from a variety of sources, including agriculture and the food supply chain.
Our Work in the Supply Chain
In collaboration with WRAP and other partners, the Wye and Usk Foundation is:
- Implementing nature-based solutions such as farm wetlands to trap nutrients and slow water flow before it reaches the rivers.
- Supporting producers with practical guidance through WRAP’s Recommended Key Practices, helping them reduce pollution and improve water stewardship.
- Facilitating collaboration through the Wye Agri-Food Partnership Roundtable, bringing together farmers, food businesses, NGOs, and regulators to align efforts and share best practices.
- Targeting high-impact sectors, such as poultry and potatoes, to overcome barriers to sustainable water management and reduce nutrient runoff
A Collective Effort
This project is part of a broader vision to ensure that by 2030, 50% of the UK’s fresh food is sourced from areas with sustainable water management.
The Wye and Usk Foundation’s work is helping to make this vision a reality—restoring river health while supporting a resilient, sustainable food system.
