A 'root' of the Issues 

We believe a ‘root’ to some of the many environmental and systemic issues harming Rivers, is the fact Rivers are treated as 'objects' under current UK environmental law. While we believe this provides a 'doorway' for exploitation and harm to Mother Earth, we think this also causes subconscious separation, that disconnects us from 'her' in many ways. This is where we at VoW think there's a power in changing the words.

River Legal Personhood - The impact

River personhood is a legal concept that gives a River a voice, by granting a River the status of a legal person. This shifts a River from an ‘object’ under law, to being recognized as an entity with legal 'standing', one with intrinsic value and essential rights that deserve to be enforced and protected. In this, we believe granting Rivers Legal Personhood has the power to change and deepen relationships between humans and nature, away from one of domination, to one of balance. This is the core of our mission.

We have launched a petition, a catalyst for the change we believe needs to happen for the voices and rights of flowing waters. If successful, this will be a first in the UK, one that begins to enshrine protection for the Rights of Rivers and Rias in national law, from ‘objects’ to ‘entities’, with legal rights that deserve to be protected and enforced. 

What is a Drowned River Valley (Ria)

Drowned River Valleys, also known as Rias, are a common geographical feature in Cornwall, another example being the Fal Estuary. Ria systems form when sea levels rise, flooding a River valley that is already present, shaped over time through the erosional processes of a flowing River. The valley, now submerged under the seawater, forms a long winding estuary stretching inland, creating unique geological and habitat features that maintain the look characteristics of a River. To our knowledge, Rias have been rarely discussed in the context of environmental personhood.

Further Information

You can read and sign our petition here.

For more information on River Personhood and our ideas for River Guardianship check out our VoW Further Info pdf HERE.

Emily (Emmeline)

Founder and Executive Director

Emmeline’s experiences in nature became a large part of her education, especially amidst a rather unconventional upbringing. But with an inquisitive mind, deeply rooted earthen connection & stubborn optimism she was able to achieve a first-class BSc (hons) in Applied Zoology, & a Research Master’s (MRes) in Marine Biology. Nearing the end of her master’s in 2021 a reflective moment by the river directed Emmeline into the realm of documentary filmmaking, with which she began investigating the root of river and river estuary issues in the UK, environmentally and systemically. Her investigations led to the creation of a short film entitled Veins of the Earth (VOTE) in 2024, and the formation of a local documentary filmmaking company called Root and River Creative. 

Amidst her filmmaking, her research not only led to the depths of a system that just isn’t working, but to the words she feels drive disconnect, from us and Mother Earth, Nature, Rivers, treated as 'objects' under UK Environmental law. This led Emmeline to form the Voices of Water Foundation, making her first VoW to the Helford River she loves and lives by, and curating our first ‘tributary’ mission. 

Adam Radage

Ecologist & Wildlife Filmmaker

Adam joined our team to help document our vision, joining Emmeline at points on the pilgrimage, helping us to share our first ‘tributary’ mission to the world. As a wildlife photographer and filmmaker with a deep passion for showcasing the world’s natural diversity. From his early years spent exploring ponds and learning about aquatic life, Adam developed a profound connection to nature that cultivated a career in science, ecology and conservation. With a strong background in ecological research, Adam developed a nuanced understanding of wildlife and ecosystems, which he now channels into powerful visual storytelling.

This journey led him to the ocean and ultimately to filmmaking, earning an MA in Film and Television from Falmouth University. Adam is also a cofounder of SOUP Audiovisual, a new production collective that merges science, slowness, cinematography, and sound to explore the marvels of our planet through immersive storytelling. His work specifically highlights the ecological importance of underwater habitats while also emphasising their value for human wellbeing, curiosity, and education. It is this passion for cinematography and artistic depiction of aquatic life that Adam brings to VoW.

Our Trustees

Kirstie Edwards

Chair, Politician, Ocean & Nature Advocate  

As Ex Mayor and Cllr at Falmouth Town council and having worked as an advocate for all things climate and nature both within academia, the public, private and VCSE sectors for over a decade, Kirstie brings both professional and community representation to her supporter role.

In her work at Cornwall Voluntary sector forum, she manages the Climate and Environment Alliance- a collection of Cornish VCSE organisations that work within this space, to use their collective power to support and affect change. The alliance has recently published The Green Footsteps Guide | Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum 97 pages of support for VCSE orgs to become more sustainable. Kirstie remains committed to ensuring that the voice of the voluntary sector is central in shaping a greener, fairer future that protects wild spaces.