Zulu Ecosystems and Yorkshire Water partner to improve bathing water quality in Ilkely, Yorkshire, using nature-based solutions. 

We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Yorkshire Water, focused on enhancing bathing water quality at the designated Ilkley site on the River Wharfe.

This collaboration will explore nature-based solutions (NbS) to tackle faecal pollution from agricultural sources and other drivers of water quality issues in the area. By leveraging our proprietary catchment analytics platform and developing new models, we aim to identify targeted interventions across the Wharfe and Ouse catchment that deliver cleaner water where it matters most.

What makes this project unique?

• A catchment-wide opportunity assessment to pinpoint local, high-impact, nature-based interventions.
• Optimising interventions for water quality, as well as other ecosystem services, such as carbon and biodiversity net gain (BNG), to help tackle additional benefits.
• An outcome-driven strategy grounded in technical excellence, stakeholder engagement, and practical feasibility.

Alex Robinson, Commercial Director of Zulu Ecosystems, said, “We’re really looking forward to partnering with Yorkshire Water and local stakeholders in the Ilkley area to help solve their bathing water quality challenges. We see this as a huge opportunity to explore how nature-based solutions can be used to improve the local environment and benefit the individuals and communities that are impacted the most by such challenges.” 

The project will be delivered in two phases:

• Discovery and Intervention Scoping – mapping opportunities and assessing interventions, impacts, and economics.
• Origination and Implementation – working with landowners and partners to bring interventions to life.

This initiative aligns with Yorkshire Water’s commitment to environmental targets and public health, while also exploring opportunities to contribute to carbon and biodiversity goals.

Nathan Lawson, Partnerships and Engagement Manager at Yorkshire Water, commented:“Very exciting to be working with Zulu Ecosystems on this project. Catchment management is essential for long-term, sustainable improvements to inland riverine bathing water quality. The insight we'll gain from this will allow us to make targeted interventions and work with an increasing number of partners to make lasting change for customers.” 

Together, we’re turning data into action and making nature part of the solution.

Find out more

For more information on how to regenerate landscapes as a farmer, landowner or volunteer, please contact hello@zuluecosystems.com.