South West project to predict algal blooms wins funding award
Early warning system
The water company has worked with partners including the University of Exeter, the Centre for Resilience in Environment, Water and Waste and Plymouth Marine Laboratory.The scheme will work by combining satellite images and drone technology with water quality data and input from local communities to build an early warning system for algal blooms.Using artificial intelligence, the new system will help water companies take action sooner to improve water quality, protect nature and reduce treatment costs.The project is due to start in October 2025 and is expected to three years to complete.
Prof Lisa Roberts, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Exeter, said: "This project has the potential to develop pioneering new methods to predict and detect the onset of algal blooms in our water systems, to help experts take action before they affect both water quality and supply. "It will help companies to continue to ensure safe, affordable water and protect our natural spaces and ecological health."
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