Episode 4 - Making Space for Rivers - Working with nature, not against it

In this episode of Countdown to the Climate Action Festival, Rachel Sanson speaks with Tom Kay about the urgent need to rethink how we manage our rivers in a changing climate. Drawing on years of research and practical experience, Tom explores how traditional flood protection and environmental management have often made things worse - hardening riverbanks, disrupting natural systems, and increasing the risks of disaster. He presents a powerful alternative: making space for rivers by allowing them to reclaim parts of their natural floodplains. This nature-based approach can help protect communities, restore ecosystems, and create new opportunities for recreation, showing that when we work with nature’s rhythms instead of against them, everyone benefits.