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Posted: 14th August 2024

DAERA launches initiative to tackle blue-green algae
The USPCA has called on DAERA to consider potential immediate solutions to blooms.
The £450k initiative will seek solutions to tackle algae blooms.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the first stage of a £450k initiative to tackle blue-green algae.

The Blue-Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) will consider solutions to reduce algae blooms in Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland waterways.

In the first of two stages of the SBRI, DAERA will seek five applicants to develop concepts which will tackle blue-green algae blooms. Applicants will need to demonstrate technical feasibility and commercial viability of their concept.

In phase two, two to three concepts will be selected and developed into potential pilot solutions. This will see projects developed into prototypes or demonstrators.

DAERA will be seeking solutions which treat and reduce blooms of blue-green algae without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and its nearby waterways. This might include physical, chemical or biological options, or a combination of solutions.

Potential solutions must comply with legislation and environmental designations.

The deadline for applications is 3pm on Friday, 13 September. Phase one is then anticipated to run until March 2025, with potential phase two applications commencing summer 2025.

Blue-green algae is common in non-flowing fresh water such as lakes, ponds and rivers. Hot weather can mean it grows quicker, causing a ‘bloom’.

Most types of blue-green algae is highly toxic to pets, and can be fatal. Dogs become at risk if they swim in or drink contaminated water. Algae clinging to fur can also be dangerous when they groom themselves.

DAERA minister Andrew Muir said: “Whilst much attention has been devoted to the issues with BGA [blue-green algae] in Lough Neagh I am equally focussed on water quality issues across Northern Ireland and this work will hopefully provide solutions that can be applied to any area that has been affected by the emergence of BGA.”

The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) has broadly welcomed the initiative to tackle blue-green algae blooms in Northern Ireland. It says that the algae can have serious adverse effects on pets and wildlife, with an otter recently found poisoned by blue-green algae near River Bann in Portglenone.

However, it has called for DAERA to consider the more immediate solutions that might be presented.

A spokesperson said: “We would call on DAERA to look at potential immediate solutions to prevention of the growth of the algae, as the timelines for the initiative are longer term, and the immediate danger to pets and wildlife is of great concern.”

Image © Shutterstock



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