The Thames is ringing in 2026 with a new lease of life, according to results from the latest health check of the famous river that was once declared ‘biologically dead’ - although experts warn that rising water temperatures and pollution threaten this hard-won resurrection.

Published today, the updated The State of the Thames report by our team highlights how decades of dedicated action have bettered the Thames for people and nature – including beloved species such as harbour porpoises and wading birds. These improvements include lower concentrations of toxic metals, more ‘breathable’ water for the river’s underwater wildlife, and new riverside walkways and nature habitats along its banks that are enjoyed by London’s residents and visitors.

The report also shows how rapidly regulation can bring benefits; plastic cotton bud sticks, once one of the most commonly found litter items in the Thames, have all but disappeared from its shores following the UK’s sale-ban in 2022.