British windsurfers, sailors, and rowers are leading a unique conservation effort to combat invasive species, demonstrating how Olympic sports can positively impact biodiversity.
At Portland Harbour, the calm water is occasionally disrupted by the graceful movements of windsurfer Alice Reed. As she maneuvers her board with fluid precision, the only sounds are the wind and the gentle hum of her hydrofoil. Reed effortlessly glides across the water, pausing only to catch her breath. “On the water, I’m just having so much fun – it’s only when I come off that I realize how much work I’ve done,” she says.
The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, home to the British Sailing Team, buzzes with activity. Young sailors and windsurfers practice on the water, while the shore is lined with boats eagerly awaiting their turn. Team GB, renowned for its dominance in Olympic sailing, is preparing for future events with both excitement and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Beneath the waves, however, a serious issue looms. Invasive species are increasingly threatening aquatic ecosystems. These non-native species often outcompete indigenous flora and fauna, contributing to global biodiversity loss. Olympic athletes are now playing a role in addressing this problem.
Alice Reed, who has a deep personal connection to water sports, recalls fondly her early experiences windsurfing with her father. Today, as she trains intensively for the 2028 Olympics, her commitment extends beyond performance. Reed, who holds a degree in marine conservation from the University of Plymouth, is actively involved in efforts to fight invasive species.
In Weymouth Harbour alone, 18 non-native species were recorded in 2023. These include Japanese kelp, which overtakes native kelp; slipper limpets, which smother seabed species; and trumpet tubeworms, which create large reef-like structures. Reed emphasizes the importance of a “clean, check, dry” procedure to prevent the spread of these species.
Reed’s conservation practices include thoroughly washing her gear after each session to remove any potential invaders. “When traveling, I make sure there’s nothing on my equipment,” she says.
The 2024 report from the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) highlights the severe impact of invasive species. Over 37,000 alien species have been introduced globally, with about 6% of alien plants and significant percentages of alien invertebrates, vertebrates, and microbes being invasive. These species disrupt habitats, food chains, and contribute to extinctions.
Despite the challenges, the IPBES report suggests that prevention measures, including biosecurity and import controls, are crucial. While prevention is ideal, controlling and eradicating existing invasions can still be effective.
Phil Horton, RYA’s sustainability manager, sees Olympic events as a valuable opportunity to raise awareness about invasive species. “Elite athletes are role models who can set an example in environmental best practices,” he notes. “Maintaining clean equipment is critical not only for performance but also for preventing the spread of invasive species.”
The rising popularity of water sports, with 13.2 million UK adults participating in boating activities in 2022 and over 53 million people in the US engaging in water sports in 2023, brings both benefits and risks. Increased watercraft activity can lead to higher risks of invasive species introduction. However, enjoying time in or near water continues to offer significant health benefits.
As Olympic athletes like Reed continue their training and advocacy, they highlight the potential for sports to drive positive environmental change and leave a lasting legacy of conservation.
