Testing the waters

Last week we packed up the essentials: a thermos, a few slabs of cake, and a water testing kit. Destination? Dartmoor. Not just for a picnic (though we obviously had one), but to take part in The Great UK WaterBlitz.

You might already know we support Surfers Against Sewage through our 1% For The Planet commitment. But this time, we wanted to get stuck in ourselves: boots on, kits out, doing our bit to help protect the freshwater ecosystems we all rely on.

What is the WaterBlitz?

Organised by the brilliant team at Surfers Against Sewage and other clean water supporters, The Great UK WaterBlitz calls on the public to get out there and test our local waters. The aim? To gather as much on-the-ground data as possible about the state of our rivers, streams, brooks, and lakes.

Once all the test results are in, they’re compiled into national reports that:

• Hold water companies accountable for pollution
• Inform the Environment Agency about rivers they don’t currently monitor
• Supply hard evidence to the Office for Environmental Protection to challenge illegal activity

Why We Care

Because it’s not just about wild swims and scenic walks. It’s about basic decency. Our waterways are in crisis, and pollution is still being pumped into UK rivers daily. If that doesn’t sit right with you, you’re not alone.

We believe businesses have a role to play in driving change, not just talking about it. That’s why, as part of our environmental responsibility commitment we do the following:

• Donate 1% of every slice to environmental causes like Surfers Against Sewage
• Use zero plastic in our packaging
• Use zero palm oil in our cakes
• Source ingredients as ethically and sustainably as we can
• Get involved in action campaigns like this as words without action are just noise

Can Cake Really Help?

We reckon so. You don’t need a water testing kit to make a difference. Simply by eating our cakes or by stocking them in your café, you're helping fund this kind of work. We donate 1% of every sale to environmental action through 1% for the Planet, with a chunk going directly to Surfers Against Sewage.

So whether you're sipping coffee in your local, munching cake on the sofa, or serving slices across your counter, you’re part of the movement.

Didn’t make it to the WaterBlitz?

Don't fret. You’re still making a difference. But if this has sparked something in you, head to Surfers Against Sewage to get involved in their next campaign, beach clean, or water testing event. The more of us shouting about this, the louder the message becomes.  Keen to find out what the results were near you and UK wide? Check the data here. You can sign up to the next Great WaterBlitz campaign here.

Thanks for helping us do good, one sticky slice at a time.

Tom & Oli
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