Waterway restoration, much like the construction industry can cause negative impacts to the natural environment in a number of ways, from altering land use and introducing pollutants into a watercourse, to contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss. Whilst the end result of the project can lead to an improved environment for biodiversity and people, the impact during restoration can be greatly. It is the responsibility for waterway restoration groups to minimise this impact and to ensure full accordance with the UK environment laws, follow best practice guidelines and to negate the impact of environmental damages.

 The Environmental Toolkit provides information on environmental considerations, legislation and best practice guidelines for volunteers and canal restoration societies.