A restoration of a historic Pembrokeshire millpond to help it perform its natural function has won a global sustainability award.
The Wallis Pond restoration was entered jointly with Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages UK’s River Ecclesbourne restoration project in Derbyshire. Together, the projects won the Nature-Based Solutions Award at the Global Sustainability Awards 2026 in London.
Wallis Pond had become increasingly silted over a number of years, leaving only a small amount of water able to pass through and reducing the diversity of habitats it could support. Working with the Pembrokeshire County Council, Ambleston Community Council and Heavyside Services, the project saw the pond re-dug and de-silted, as well as the old sluice gate replaced.
The project is designed to help the pond perform its natural function again, strengthen resilience to storm events, improve water quality, and promote biodiversity.
The restoration has had a positive impact on the area and the wider community, encouraging residents to spend time here and enjoy watching the wildlife return.
Philippa Naylor, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages UK, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to see the Wallis Pond project recognised with the Nature-Based Solutions Award.
“This achievement belongs to all partners and experts who have worked together to restore this important habitat and support the natural processes that help this catchment thrive. It is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations and local communities come together to protect the water environment we all share.”
The Wallis Pond initiative forms part of Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages global commitment to protecting, restoring, and returning more water than the company uses in its operations. This includes the site in Narberth, Pembrokeshire where Princes Gate and Nestlé Pure Life waters are bottled at source.
The Global Sustainability Awards 2026 were hosted by Sustainability Magazine and BizClik to recognise innovation, leadership and excellence in climate action.
The Wallis Pond and River Ecclesbourne water regeneration projects also won the Sustainable Use of Water Award at the Footprint Sustainability Awards 2026 and were shortlisted for the Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative Award at the Food and Drink Federation Awards.
