Protecting our Precious Groundwater Together – Talk at Shoreham Sutainability Week

Did you know that the residents of Shoreham-by-Sea and the Brighton & Hove area get their drinking water from a natural local source—a vast chalk formation beneath their feet? This chalk “aquifer” supplies clean water to around 365,000 people.

With Sussex experiencing drier summers and wetter winters, the region faces significant water stress and an increased risk of flooding.

At the same time, rising water consumption and human activities are placing growing pressure on both the quality and quantity of our groundwater resources.

Join us to learn where your water comes from, what an aquifer is, and understand how you—whether a local resident or a business—can help save water and better protect your home or facilities from flooding.

Discover the inspiring local efforts underway to safeguard our drinking water supply, address flood risks through innovative nature-based solutions, and educate school children about the vital role water plays in our lives.

About TAP – Protecting our precious groundwater together

The Aquifer Project team (TAP) aims to protect the quality and quantity of our groundwater. Since 2016, TAP operates as a collaborative group of local water experts from Brighton & Hove City Council’s flood risk team, the Environment Agency, Southern Water’s catchment team, the South Downs National Park Authority and the University of Brighton. It is delivered by The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere team.

About The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere

UNESCO Biospheres are places of international best practice, promoting sustainable development. The World Network of UNESCO Biospheres counts +750 sites, including 7 in the UK. UNESCO has recognised The Living Coast since 2014 as a Biosphere for its world-class environment including our chalk aquifer and successful collaborations on sustainable practices.

The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere operates as an interdisciplinary partnership encompassing a wide array of organisations (voluntary, conservation, community, education, local government, private and public sector). Together they promote and deliver actions and solutions supporting sustainable living for everyone in our area. Some of their flagship projects include The Aquifer Project, Our City, Our World, and Greening The Cities. Learn more on www.wearetap.org.uk/ and www.thelivingcoast.org.uk

More information
We welcome visitors to the Port to come and experience our unique environment and learn more about us. While enjoying your time here, please be aware that this is a working Port and moving vehicles, uneven ground and deep water all feature within our footprint.

Please be careful as you explore; keep away from the water’s edge and bear the weather conditions in mind. While here you must follow any instructions provided by our team, and stay on marked walkways at all times.

Please make sure you wear suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.