CAMPAIGNERS demanded that Nando’s go public with its promised audit of chicken suppliers today amid concerns on water pollution.

Environmental group River Action welcomed the decision by the restaurant chain to carry out an audit of the environmental impact of its chicken supply chain.

Campaigners from the group linked ecological damage in Britain’s rivers to the disposal of the millions of tons of animal waste produced by chicken factory farms. 

They are now calling on Nando’s to go one step further by ensuring full transparency and accountability.

A letter from the group signed by figures such as comedian Jo Brand, presenter Chris Packham and Led Zeppelin lead singer Robert Plant, addressed to Nando’s CEO Mark Standish, has asked that the company commit to two key actions.

This includes showing “environmental leadership” by committing publicly to protect Britain’s rivers as a “core pillar of its sustainability policies.” 

They call on the chain to demonstrate “rigorous standards” ensuring that chicken manure is managed in an environmentally responsible manner. 

The letter also asks that Nando’s publish the findings of its supply chain audit in full “no later than three months from now.”

River Action’s head of campaigns Amy Fairman said: “Factory-farmed poultry is wreaking havoc on Britain’s rivers, polluting vital waterways like the River Wye.

“But brands like Nando’s have the power and the responsibility to drive change. By demanding stricter environmental standards from their suppliers, they can help protect our rivers.

“Nando’s recent commitment to an independent audit is a step in the right direction, but transparency and accountability must follow.”

A Nando’s spokesperson said earlier this month that it has a water policy in place for its chicken suppliers.

A statement from the chain said: “We are not polluting the River Wye, and our supplier has assured us that no manure is spread, stored or otherwise disposed of on any of the chicken farms we source from.”