Live E-Coli data available to the public for the first time in the UK
Families Can Now Check River Safety Instantly - First Real-Time E. Coli Monitor Goes Live where the Jubilee River meets the Thames
Simple QR code scan gives instant access to live water quality data - "Is it safe to go into the river today?" becomes an immediate, science-based answer
For the first time, anyone planning a riverside swim, morning row, fishing or dog walk can instantly check if the Jubilee River and River Thames is safe simply by scanning a QR code with their smartphone.
A groundbreaking water monitoring system has been installed just off Black Potts Island near Windsor today, giving the British public immediate access to real-time E. coli levels - crucial information that until now required laboratory testing with days of delay.
From Question to Answer in Seconds - "For families planning a riverside picnic, rowers preparing for morning training, or dog walkers whose pets love river swims, this technology transforms a simple question - 'Is it safe today?' - into an instant, science-based answer," explains Claire Zambuni, founder of The River Summit and Festival, the independent organisation partnering with Proteus Instruments on this initiative.
The QR code democratises water quality information that was previously accessible only to specialists, making vital public health data available to anyone with a smartphone. No apps to download, no technical knowledge required - just scan and see.
Why This Matters Right Now
E. coli bacteria are an indicator of faecal contamination, with elevated levels in the environment signalling contamination from sewage overflows and indicate potential health risks. During heavy rainstorms, bacterial levels can change dramatically within hours, but traditional testing methods create dangerous delays between contamination events and public awareness.
"When my son was young, I would have loved to know if the river was safe before letting him paddle," says Zambuni. "This gives every parent, every river user, the power to make informed decisions about their family's safety."
Revolutionary Technology Meets Community Need
The Proteus monitor represents cutting-edge water quality technology, utilising patented algorithms and fluorescence spectroscopy to provide accurate, real-time measurement of coliform bacteria. Unlike traditional methods requiring manual sampling and laboratory analysis, this system provides continuous monitoring with built-in cleaning technology for reliable, ongoing operation.
The partnership between award-winning Proteus Instruments and The River Summit demonstrates how technology and community collaboration can address real environmental challenges. As an independent organisation not funded by water companies as well as other polluters, The River Summit provides the neutral platform necessary for honest dialogue about water quality and innovative solutions.
Hannah Gunter says, ‘At Proteus Instruments we are thrilled to be collaborating with The River Summit for a second year. This latest installation ahead of the July summit is bringing a UK first service, enabling ordinary water users to understand more about their rivers. We believe this kind of accessible, real-time monitoring should be the norm, not the exception. I’m extremely passionate about the importance of our rivers - both for the environment and for the people. By making water quality data easy to access and understand, we want to help empower communities to take an active role in protecting these vital ecosystems for generations to come.’
Creating Change Through Collaboration
This project exemplifies the cross-sector collaboration that drives genuine progress - bringing together cutting-edge technology companies, independent environmental organisations, and community needs to create solutions that work for everyone.
"This is more than monitoring - it's about empowering communities with the information they need to protect themselves and their rivers," explains Zambuni. "When people have access to real-time data, they become partners in river protection rather than passive observers."
The implications of this monitoring breakthrough will be explored at the UK River Summit on July 8th at Morden Hall, where water company CEOs, government ministers including Emma Hardy MP (Minister for Water), scientists, and community advocates will examine how technology can transform river protection.
"The Summit creates space where water company CEOs sit alongside passionate campaigners, where scientists share platforms with community groups," says Zambuni. "Real solutions emerge when everyone's voice is heard."
The Thames installation near Windsor serves as a pilot that could transform water quality monitoring across UK waterways, providing better protection for public health and supporting informed environmental stewardship.
The live data will be accessible through a simple QR code scan, marking a new era of transparency and community empowerment in UK water safety.