In cities, we are connected to oceans through the streams in our neighbourhoods. However, streams are forgotten, pollution is common and measuring water quality is effortful. Riverfly monitoring is a citizen science technique through which volunteers collect data, which is leveraged to monitor pollution, track changes in water quality over time and inform improvement efforts. X-River is an immersive experience to allow diverse groups to explore the biodiversity in urban water bodies and train as riverfly monitors. It is used by conservation organisations to train volunteers, and by schools to create interest among students about nearby streams, thereby preparing the next generation of riverfly monitors. It can serve as an experiential exhibit in museums and a means to drive awareness in boroughs through local events. X-River is a step towards encouraging citizens to become stewards of the water bodies around them, thus connecting them to the oceans.

X-River was a finalist in the 2024 RCA Grand Challenge competition, which featured over 130 teams designing solutions to address the impacts of London on the ocean environment. A selection of photos from the event can be viewed above.

X-River was also exhibited at UNESCO 2024 Ocean Decade Conference in the Museum of Natural Sciences in Barcelona, as seen above.