A partnership between the RSPB and a water supply company in the Lake District has scooped the Ashden Award for Nature-based Solutions.

Wild Haweswater, the joint venture with United Utilities, was one of seven winners at the ceremony held on June 27 at the Institute of Engineering and Technology during the London Climate Action Week.

Every year, the Ashden Awards acknowledge inclusive climate initiatives, with more than 500 contenders this year.

Wild Haweswater's work includes landscape restoration, such as re-wiggling Swindale Beck, re-wetting peat bogs, planting tens of thousands of trees, and creating the largest native tree and plant nursery in the Lake District.

(Image: Ashden)

All these ventures aim to improve drinking water, absorb carbon, and increase resilience to flooding, drought, and fire in the fight against climate change.

Restored habitats now thrive with rich biodiversity, including rare lichens, Pied Flycatchers, and the recently recolonised Marsh Fritillary Butterfly.

The initiative also boasts impressive numbers; 200,000 native trees planted and 30,000 plants of 50 native species grown in their nursery since 2011.

Annabel Rushton, RSPB visitor experience manager at Wild Haweswater, said: “The Ashden Awards are like the climate BAFTAS, so we are absolutely thrilled to have won. There are so many inspirational projects taking place around the world, so to be among the other winners is incredible.

“Partnership working and local communities has been the real key to many of these projects and it’s true of our work at Wild Haweswater.

“Nature-based solutions within a farmed landscape can deliver benefits in the fight against climate change as well as to both the economy and the ecology of this rugged part of the Lake District.

“In this nature and climate emergency, nature-based solutions are more important than ever before.”

John Gorst, catchment partnership officer for United Utilities, said: “The project at Wild Haweswater showcases nature-friendly farming at its best.

“As well as delivering fantastic results by enabling nature and wildlife to thrive, it also provides access to nature for the public.”

Dr Stephen Hall, head of awards at Ashden, said: “These winning organisations are brimming with epic climate ambition – ambition to slash global emissions and transform our world.

“They’re also pioneers of climate justice, building a world that’s fairer and greener. Change happens faster when more people believe in it, back it, and enjoy the benefits.”

Dr Ashok Sinha, chief executive officer of Ashden, said: “This year’s Ashden Award winners are worthy champions.

“They’re tackling the biggest climate challenges, in ways that also create important benefits – like new green jobs and fairer societies.”