Kingston University researchers will launch a three-year programme to analyze pollutants—heavy metals, pesticides, anti-cancer drugs, microplastics, pathogens, and drugs of abuse—and monitor the River Thames’ water ecosystem, complemented by pollution modelling.

The project combines chemical analysis, environmental sampling and predictive modelling to assess pollution risks along the Thames, funded with 110,000 from local authorities, environmental groups and the Port of London Authority.

Analytical measurements will be integrated with pollution modelling to understand water‑quality conditions and how they evolve over time.

The initiative sits within broader regulatory discussions on reforming water regulation in England and boosting monitoring through advanced technologies and third‑party checks.

It responds to public concern over sewage spills and rising water bills, while aligning with debates on reforming England’s water regulators and expanding pollution monitoring via tech.

The programme emphasizes safety for businesses, the public, wildlife and river users such as rowers, sailors and swimmers, and aims to provide reliable water‑quality information access.

Overall aim is to improve Thames health for commuters, businesses, flora and fauna, and users like rowers, sailors and swimmers.

The initiative is part of the Mayors for a Drinkable Thames, supporting a three-year PhD studentship, consultancy work and monitoring equipment purchases to raise water quality toward drinkable levels.

Public-facing water analysis will be conducted at multiple Thames locations, including real‑time monitoring, to build a locally predictive forecasting model accessible to the public for safer water use.

A core objective is public access to reliable water‑quality information and early identification of pollution risks.

Funding includes 45,000 from Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, and Surfers Against Sewage for monitoring the Windsor–Kingston–Richmond corridor, and 65,000 from the Port of London Authority for monitoring downstream of Teddington Lock.

The project is coordinated by the Thames Landscape Strategy with partners including the Royal Borough of Kingston to enhance and connect riverside spaces for communities and future generations.