The importance of Rainham Marshes and the inter-tidal habitats resulted in the area being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Through sound environmental management the company has helped ensure the survival of a range of species including short-eared owls, foxes, badgers, common lizards, adders and birds of prey. Of particular interest is the significant number of brown hares – a species whose number is dwindling UK-wide but which is flourishing here.

In 2004, the company constructed a selection of new hibernacula for the protected common lizard from hollow pipes, grass, vegetation and logs to create a range of environments which would provide both shelter from the heat and good basking conditions. This proved so successful the project team also constructed a sandbank as a haven for the tawny mining bee.

In addition, the company has been a staunch supporter of the RSPB on the marshes with total support currently standing at over £1.1 million. This includes a grant through the Veolia ES Cleanaway Havering Riverside Trust to facilitate the RSPB purchase of over 870 acres (860 football pitches) of land from the MoD, safeguarding the land in perpetuity. Part of the agreement was that Havering residents would be allowed free access onto the reserve.