A new digital tool is being launched to help people in Bournemouth learn more about bathing water quality at local beaches.
Litter Free Dorset is rolling out the AI-powered chat function in partnership with Hello Lamppost, giving beachgoers the chance to ask questions, explore local water quality issues and access resources online or via QR code.
The launch is part of a wider campaign encouraging residents and visitors to take part in a short online survey hosted on the Dorset Coast Have Your Say website.
Both the chat tool and the survey aim to gather public views and increase understanding of the factors that affect sea water quality.
Wessex Water is also playing a key role by installing new high-tech monitoring buoys at Bournemouth and Boscombe beaches. These track bacteria levels in the sea using artificial intelligence and provide real-time data which can be shared with the public and local partners.
All designated bathing areas in Bournemouth are currently rated excellent by the Environment Agency. However, campaigners say factors such as heavy rainfall or local wildlife can still impact short-term water quality.
Litter Free Dorset will be at Bournemouth Pier this Saturday, during the Pier-to-Pier Swim event, to speak to beach users and encourage participation in the campaign.