Discontinuation of our members magazine

Thank you for the many years of support and enthusiasm for our magazine. As we move toward new ways to stay connected, we know you may have some questions.

Here you’ll find answers about the magazine’s discontinuation and how we’ll continue sharing updates and stories with you.

1. Why are you discontinuing the membership magazine?

After much consideration, we’ve made the difficult decision to stop publishing our membership magazine. This decision was not taken lightly. Rising production, print and postage costs, changes in how people consume content, and our commitment to using resources more efficiently have all played a role. We want to invest more in flexible, digital-first communications that reach more members more effectively.

2. When will this change happen?

The latest issue (number 227 covering Autumn/Winter 2025) will be the final printed issue of Waterlife.

3. Will anything replace the magazine?

Yes. While the print magazine is ending, we’re expanding our digital content, including monthly email newsletters, member-exclusive virtual events, articles on our website, interactive updates, and stories shared through social media and events. We want to continue providing valuable content in ways that are easier to access and more environmentally sustainable.

4. Why didn’t you ask members for their views before making this decision?

We understand that many members have a strong attachment to the magazine. Over recent years, we’ve closely monitored readership levels, member feedback, and engagement with our digital content. These insights informed our decision. While we know this change won’t suit everyone, we believe it’s the right step to serve the broader needs of our membership into the future.

5. Could you not find another way to fund the magazine, like a sponsor or advertising?

We did look into alternative ways to fund the magazine, but the decision was not just made for cost reasons. We are very aware that people have changed in the way they consume their content and, as an environmental charity, we have a responsibility in using our resources more effectively and limiting our impact on the planet.

In the past, we have received income from advertisers in the magazine, but this represented a small amount of money compared to the cost of producing each magazine.

6. I loved the magazine. Will past issues still be available?

Yes. We’ve created an online archive of past issues. Here you’ll be able to revisit your favourite features, stories and interviews.

7. Is this just about saving money?

Reducing costs is part of the picture, but it’s not the only reason. We’re committed to using our members' support wisely and investing in communication formats that offer better reach, responsiveness, and sustainability. The savings will help us improve digital services and member benefits overall.

8. I don’t use digital platforms—how will I stay informed?

We’re mindful that not everyone is online. We’re exploring ways to ensure that essential updates and news still reach all members, including by post or through local events, where possible. If you are interested in this, please let us know and we will be in touch when we have an update

9. Can I have a discount on my membership as there is now no magazine?

Sorry we are not offering any discount as we are investing in other ways to keep members informed. While the print magazine is ending, we’re expanding our digital content, including monthly email newsletters, member-exclusive articles on our website, interactive updates, and stories shared through social media and events. We want to continue providing valuable content in ways that are easier to access and more environmentally sustainable. And the money we save by not producing, printing and posting the magazine will mean there is more money that goes towards our conservation work.

10. Will you still be running the photo competition now there is no Waterlife?

We know that the photo competition is popular and are currently working out how we can run it in the future. Please keep an eye on our emails and website for news on this.

11. Can I share feedback about this change?

Yes please. We value your thoughts, and we want to hear from you. Please let us know your thoughts or alternatively you can use the feedback form on our website. Your input will continue to shape how we communicate with our members.