Tourist Influx Turns Lake Windermere Green with Algal Blooms, New Study Finds
New research funded by the UK Space Agency indicates that the surge of tourists visiting the Lake District is contributing to the proliferation of algal blooms in Lake Windermere. These blooms, fueled by nutrients often originating from sewage and exacerbated by high temperatures, pose risks to water quality and wildlife by depleting oxygen levels or producing toxins.
The study, the first of its kind in Cumbria, highlights a direct correlation between visitor numbers and algal growth, as observed by the Save Windermere campaign group. They advocate for urgent action, including the complete removal of sewage from Windermere, citing data indicating significant untreated sewage discharges by United Utilities since 2020.
The research, which analysed mobile phone data to estimate visitor numbers alongside chlorophyll-a levels indicating algae presence, revealed spikes in visitor counts, particularly on hot days. This aligns with climate change trends driving more frequent heatwaves, further exacerbating algal blooms.
Richard Flemmings, CEO of Map Impact, emphasises the role of technology in understanding and addressing pollution sources. United Utilities asserts its infrastructure can handle peak visitor loads, employing advanced treatment methods to mitigate pollution.
While the Environment Agency acknowledges progress in reducing phosphorus levels entering the lake, they emphasise ongoing efforts to address pollution from various sources, underscoring a commitment to improving Lake Windermere’s water quality through collaborative initiatives.
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