Swimmable Waters
Around the world, harbour decks and urban swimming zones are turning waterfronts into accessible, vibrant hubs where people can safely swim, gather, and connect with water. Could our communities be more swimmable?
IS YOUR COMMUNITY SWIMMABLE?
Taking a cool dip in a lake, river or the ocean on a hot day has long been a Canadian pastime. However, in many communities, a lack of clean and accessible natural waterbodies means that not everyone can enjoy this summer pleasure.
We want to change this.
Swim Drink Fish is aiming to start conversations in B.C. about the importance of public access to clean, swimmable water, especially in more urban environments.
We want to open people’s eyes about what’s possible and shine a light on international examples that how we can turn underused waterways into safe, accessible and fun swimming spots that the whole community can enjoy.
What if?
What if you had a free place to swim close to home?
What if taking a swim outside was as normal as a walk in the park?
What if jumping in the water after work became the new happy hour?
What if your city built a new swimming spot for a fraction of the cost of a new pool?
What if we cleaned up the pollution in our waterways for good?
For far too long, pollution and a lack of access have alienated communities from their local waterbodies and fuelled the idea that urban waterfronts are not suitable for swimming.
However, it does not need to be this way. Cities around the world have reclaimed their waterways and given their citizens access to a new, cost-effective public amenity that promotes active lifestyles, environmental stewardship and social inclusion.
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