Last year, the Seine River in Paris took centre stage as Toby Robinson competed in the Men’s 10km Marathon Swimming race during the Olympics.
The event not only showcased the endurance and determination of athletes like Toby, but also brought the topic of water pollution into sharp focus. This June, Toby will share his unique perspective at Waterscan’s Water Matters event, discussing the importance of cleaning up UK waterways and the lessons we can learn from the Paris Olympics.
Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Toby describes the reality of swimming in polluted water.
“Leading up to the event, the Seine River was in the news because of its polluted waterways. Swimming in polluted water is very different and a primary concern for many of us was illness. Essentially, we were swimming in sewage—a serious health risk.”
Toby Robinson
Despite these challenges, the Paris Olympics organising committee implemented significant measures to ensure the safety of competitors. These included connecting riverboats, which previously discharged raw sewage directly into the Seine, to the main sewer network. They also constructed an overflow tank to capture excess sewage during heavy rains, preventing it from contaminating the river. These initiatives not only enabled the Olympic marathon swim to proceed but also provided a roadmap for how urban waterways can be rehabilitated.
“The Seine’s transformation shows what’s possible when there’s commitment and collaboration. We can apply these lessons here in the UK to restore our rivers and open them up for everyone to enjoy.”
Toby’s passion for cleaner waterways isn’t confined to international events. He’s working on a number of swimming events in the Thames with the support of the Mayor of London.
“We’ve shown it’s possible with the Seine. Why not the Thames? Imagine the joy of seeing people swimming safely in our beautiful UK rivers. Clean waterways aren’t just about sport; they’re about creating healthier environments and providing greater access to nature for everyone.”
At the Water Matters event, Toby will share the health risks of polluted waterways and their broader impact on communities. He will also share his vision for the future, exploring how the UK can replicate the success of the Seine’s cleanup and create a legacy of thriving, accessible rivers. His talk promises to be both an eye-opener and a call to action, reminding us that cleaner waterways are not just a dream but an achievable goal.
Watch: Toby Robinson’s ‘Call for Change’
