The bar chart illustrates changes in the quality of coastal bathing waters in England between 1995 and 2020. Overall, water quality improved considerably during this period, with a substantial increase in beaches rated excellent and a sharp decline in those classified as poor. In 1995, almost half of England's bathing waters were rated poor, while only a small proportion achieved an excellent standard. However, conditions improved steadily over the following years. By 2020, approximately 70% of beaches were classified as excellent, whereas poor-quality waters had almost disappeared. The proportions rated good and sufficient also declined as more beaches reached the highest standard. Several factors may explain these improvements. Increased environmental awareness and stricter water quality regulations are likely to have reduced pollution levels. Cleaner beaches are also essential because seaside tourism contributes over £7 billion to the economy, encouraging authorities to protect coastal areas. Nevertheless, newspaper reports suggest that much of the pollution originates inland through rivers rather than from beach visitors alone. Looking ahead, a rise in pollution incidents could threaten these positive trends. If water quality deteriorates, fewer tourists may visit coastal destinations, harming local businesses and increasing pressure on environmental agencies to introduce stricter pollution controls.