Latest news with #freshwater
South China Morning Post
3 days ago
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong water safety scandal: what happened and how to protect yourself
Hong Kong's leader has rolled out 10 measures to address a freshwater contamination case involving banned substances dirtying the supply at two public housing estates. Advertisement The Post unpacks the water safety concerns behind the saga and how people can protect themselves. 1. What's the scandal about? Residents at two public rental and subsidised estates in Fanling first reported the presence of black particles in their drinking water on Friday last week, prompting some to buy bottled water as speculation mounted over the source of the mysterious dark specks. Government test results on Thursday confirmed that the particles found in the freshwater supply at Queens Hill Estate and Shan Lai Court in Fanling were bitumen, a substance produced through the distillation of crude oil and known for its waterproofing and adhesive properties. It has been banned from use in water pipes since 2005, but authorities have stressed that the water remains safe to consume. A resident at Queens Hill Estate in Fanling buys bottled water following concerns over water safety. Photo: Nora Tam The latest tests showed the bitumen was found to be mixed with resin, a thick substance typically produced by plants.
RNZ News
21-05-2025
- Politics
- RNZ News
The injustice of a freshwater crisis
A tuna/eel lies exposed on the shores of one of the country's most polluted lakes, Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, near Christchurch. Photo: David Williams When the prime minister dodged Northland on Waitangi Day, he ended up getting an earful instead in the South Island. It came from Justin Tipa, the chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, in a speech at the Ōnuku Marae. "Our rangitiritanga has been ignored for decades, and the state of freshwater in our takiwā (territory) has gotten worse and worse ... and it's not good enough, and we're doing something about it." That something has just come to a conclusion. A two-month-long High Court case against the Crown to get a declaration that the tribe has legal rights over freshwater in its territory - an attempt to get real engagement on designing a better way to manage lakes, rivers and waterways that are becoming increasingly polluted. Newsroom's South Island correspondent and environment editor David Williams covered the case extensively. "What it comes down to is they're saying that, in a simple way, the waterways aren't in a good state," he tells The Detail today. "And part of this problem is the fact that they haven't had a seat at the policy table, and that that would actually improve things." Ngāi Tahu is asking for a series of declarations, seeking recognition of these rights, and direction that the Crown ought to, with Ngāi Tahu, create a better regime to protect freshwater. The tribe produced scientists who gave evidence of the issues, and you only have to have half an ear on the news to know what they are. The Shotover River being renamed by locals as the 'Shitover' after the Queenstown Lakes District Council pumped treated wastewater directly into it; boil water notices for Canterbury areas; statistics on our rivers and lakes that show about 60 percent are unswimmable, 74 percent of freshwater fish are threatened, and 95 percent of rivers flowing through pastoral land are contaminated. University of Otago research this year found 800,000 New Zealanders were drinking water with unsafe levels of nitrate contamination. The government's own reports say waterways have deteriorated. When it comes to how our waterways are managed, it's a top-down situation. Governments issue National Policy Statements (there's one about freshwater management) and set environmental standards. Regional and local councils need to implement them, through their water plans. "So people might be familiar with Te Mana o te Wai which was the idea that the water would come first, the health and wellbeing of the people would come second and commercial things would be third." That was rolled back with the Resource Management Amendment Bill, which makes it clear that resource consent applicants no longer need to demonstrate their proposed activities follow the Te Mana o te Wai hierarchy of obligations. That's the kind of legislation Williams means when he talks about "shifting sands" underneath this case. "The government certainly has proved that it's willing to change the law to pursue its policies," he says. Other tribes around the country are watching for the result of this case. "There is a thought that this could actually provoke claims in other parts of the country and provoke a bit of a headache for the government," says Williams. "But some would say that's a good headache because actually if you're not protecting fresh water, something needs to be done differently, and maybe this is the way." Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here . You can also stay up-to-date by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter .
The Guardian
19-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Citizen testing reveals phosphate ‘crisis' in English and Welsh rivers
Citizen testing of rivers in England and Wales by anglers reveals that more than a third of freshwater sites breach phosphate levels for good ecological status. Volunteers from angling groups are using the data to try to drive change in the way rivers are treated – but the task ahead is huge, according to the Angling Trust and Fish Legal. 'Our freshwater habitats are in crisis – a fact now widely recognised by the public, politicians and regulators,' the chief executive, Jamie Cook, said. 'Many anglers already knew this, having witnessed the decline in water quality at our favourite fishing spots. 'This report sheds further light on the dire state of our rivers and shows how anglers are using data to deepen our understanding of water pollution – and to influence the future of river management when recognised as legitimate stakeholders in decision-making processes.' The report analysed about 4,000 samples collected by volunteers in the network between July 2023 and July 2024. They measured nitrate, phosphate, ammonia, electrical conductivity, temperature and turbidity on 76 catchments, along with visual observations and photographs. Only 16% of English rivers are considered to be in good ecological status, with phosphate levels at an upper limit of 0.306ppm. The report reveals almost 34% of samples collected by angling volunteers breached that upper limit. Nitrate levels have no upper limit but Angling Trust volunteers were given independent guidance that nitrate concentrations of 5ppm or more were excessive in a freshwater habitat. This level was exceeded in 45% of samples collected. The pollution is not evenly spread, the report reveals. In the Medway catchment, which is mostly in south-east England, including Kent, Surrey and East Sussex, 100% of site averages – based on eight or more samples in the year – failed to meet good ecological status as defined by the water framework directive, which is part of English law. In the Avon catchment in Warwickshire, 86% of phosphate site averages failed to meet good ecological status. Anglers are calling on the government and water companies to improve water quality. Alex Farquhar, the campaigns and advocacy officer at the Angling Trust, said: 'This report paints a picture of the continued ill health of our rivers and the systemic failure to make the rapid shifts in governance needed to bring them back to life. Listening to citizen science initiatives like this one is essential to this process.' The extent of pollution still affecting English rivers was revealed as Labour MPs refused to consider adding extra protections for chalk streams, which would designate them as irreplaceable habitats in the planning and infrastructure bill – designed to drive Labour's target of 1.5 million houses and grow infrastructure delivery across the country. All Labour members examining the draft law rejected an amendment containing the extra provision. Sign up to Down to Earth The planet's most important stories. Get all the week's environment news - the good, the bad and the essential after newsletter promotion Anglers from the rivers Test and Itchen, two world-renowned chalk streams in Hampshire, used the data gathered over 12 months to expose how Southern Water was contributing to polluting the waterways. They protested with others over sewage dumping from the Fullerton wastewater treatment works. After the demonstration Southern Water increased the capacity of the treatment works, drastically reducing sewage spills. Anglers from the Royal Tunbridge Wells Angling Society, on the Medway, monitored 15 sites and collected 279 samples, which were analysed by the independent researchers Dr Eleanor Kean and Dr Liz Bagshaw, at the University of Bristol. Every sample breached the upper limit for good ecological status (GES) due to high phosphate levels. The anglers put pressure on the Environment Agency to create a joint monitoring group that exposed how more than 90% of pollution problems were from direct outputs and outflows from wastewater treatment works and combined sewer overflows, which were the responsibility of Southern Water. In Warwickshire, more than 50 anglers took part in the monitoring. Their sampling showed 86.4% of sites regularly tested in 2023-24 had average phosphate readings breaching good ecological status – significantly higher than the national average. Andy Hammerton, a Water Quality Monitoring Network volunteer with the Girling Angling Society, said: 'While our efforts to force the water companies and Environment Agency to improve may be perceived by some to be too little too late … my hope is that by applying the pressure now, my grandchildren will benefit from a clean and safe natural river environment where wildlife and fish will once again flourish.'
Geeky Gadgets
17-05-2025
- Science
- Geeky Gadgets
How Deep Sea Water is Now Drinkable and a Solution to the Global Water Crisis
What if the answer to the world's growing water crisis was hidden in the depths of the ocean? For decades, the idea of turning seawater into drinkable freshwater has been plagued by high costs, environmental concerns, and energy-intensive processes. But now, a new innovation called deep-sea reverse osmosis (DSRO) is rewriting the rules. By harnessing the immense natural pressure found at ocean depths, this technology offers a more sustainable, energy-efficient way to produce freshwater. Imagine a future where drought-stricken coastal cities no longer depend on overburdened rivers and aquifers but instead tap into the vast, untapped potential of the deep sea. It's not just science fiction—it's becoming reality. Undecided with Matt Ferrell uncovers how DSRO is transforming the way we think about desalination, offering solutions that are not only more efficient but also far kinder to the environment. You'll discover how this innovative approach reduces energy consumption by up to 40%, minimizes harmful brine discharge, and even integrates with renewable energy sources like offshore wind farms. But while the promise of DSRO is immense, it's not without its challenges. From the logistical complexities of deep-sea infrastructure to its high initial costs, the road ahead is as deep as the waters it seeks to harness. Could this be the key to a more sustainable water future—or just one piece of a much larger puzzle? Let's dive into the depths of this fantastic technology and its potential to reshape our relationship with water. Deep-Sea Desalination Breakthrough The Growing Challenge of Water Scarcity Water scarcity is one of the most pressing global challenges, driven by factors such as climate change, rapid urbanization, and population growth. Many regions, including parts of the southwestern United States, are experiencing prolonged and severe droughts, placing immense strain on traditional water sources like rivers, lakes, and aquifers. These sources are increasingly unable to meet the rising demand for freshwater. As a result, desalination has become a critical tool in addressing water shortages. However, conventional desalination methods are not without significant drawbacks, which necessitate the exploration of more sustainable alternatives. Limitations of Traditional Desalination Conventional desalination technologies, such as land-based reverse osmosis (RO), are widely used but come with several challenges. These systems are highly energy-intensive, relying heavily on fossil fuels, which contribute to elevated carbon emissions and exacerbate climate change. Furthermore, the process generates concentrated brine as a byproduct, which is often discharged back into the ocean. This brine, with its high salinity and chemical content, disrupts marine ecosystems and poses a threat to biodiversity. Additionally, chemical pre-treatment processes used in traditional desalination introduce further environmental risks, including the potential for chemical pollution. These limitations highlight the urgent need for innovative and environmentally friendly desalination solutions. The Ocean's Secret Solution to the Global Water Crisis Watch this video on YouTube. Unlock more potential in energy by reading previous articles we have written. What Makes Deep-Sea Reverse Osmosis Different? DSRO offers a fundamentally different approach to desalination by using the natural pressure found at ocean depths of 400 meters or more. This pressure significantly reduces the energy required to push seawater through filtration membranes, cutting energy consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional systems. Instead of relying on large land-based facilities, DSRO employs specialized pods placed on the seafloor to process seawater directly at depth. These pods pump freshwater to the surface, requiring 80-95% less land than conventional systems. This compact design makes DSRO particularly advantageous for urban or densely populated coastal areas where space is limited. Environmental Advantages of DSRO One of the most compelling benefits of DSRO is its reduced environmental impact. Unlike traditional desalination methods, DSRO minimizes brine discharge by producing low-salinity waste, which is far less harmful to marine ecosystems. Additionally, the deep-sea environment's naturally low biological activity eliminates the need for chemical pre-treatment, significantly reducing the risk of chemical pollution. By addressing these environmental concerns, DSRO aligns with global efforts to protect marine biodiversity and promote sustainable water management practices. This makes it a more ecologically responsible choice for freshwater production. Innovations Powering DSRO The success of DSRO is underpinned by advanced technological innovations that ensure its efficiency and reliability. Key features include: Advanced filtration systems designed to prevent membrane fouling, making sure consistent performance over time. designed to prevent membrane fouling, making sure consistent performance over time. Real-time monitoring systems that track operational efficiency, allowing proactive maintenance and reducing downtime. These innovations allow DSRO pods to operate effectively for extended periods, minimizing maintenance costs and disruptions to marine life. By using these technologies, DSRO achieves a balance between operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Integrating Renewable Energy To further enhance its sustainability, DSRO systems can be integrated with renewable energy sources such as offshore wind farms or solar power. This combination reduces reliance on fossil fuels and aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner energy solutions. By pairing DSRO with renewable energy, coastal communities can establish a more sustainable and resilient water supply. This integration not only reduces the environmental footprint of desalination but also supports broader climate change mitigation goals. Progress and Future Potential Pilot projects have already demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of DSRO, paving the way for commercial-scale operations expected to begin by 2028. These developments represent a significant step forward in sustainable desalination practices. However, challenges remain. The high initial costs of DSRO systems and the logistical complexities of installing and maintaining deep-sea infrastructure are notable barriers to widespread adoption. Additionally, DSRO is most suitable for coastal regions, meaning it cannot fully address water scarcity in inland areas. To achieve a comprehensive solution, DSRO must be complemented by other strategies, such as water conservation, wastewater reuse, and innovative inland water management technologies. Charting a Sustainable Water Future DSRO represents a critical advancement in the quest to address the global water crisis, particularly for coastal regions facing severe water scarcity. By reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental harm, and integrating renewable energy, this technology offers a sustainable and efficient solution for freshwater production. However, it is not a standalone solution. Broader water management strategies, including conservation, reuse, and the development of innovative inland solutions, are essential to ensure a secure and sustainable water future for all. DSRO's potential lies in its ability to complement these efforts, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable global water system. Media Credit: Undecided with Matt Ferrell Filed Under: Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
CTV News
16-05-2025
- Health
- CTV News
N.S. reminds residents to be cautious of blue-green algae in freshwater lakes
The Nova Scotia government is reminding residents to be cautious of blue-green algae. Also known as cyanobacteria, blue-green algae is found in freshwater lakes. The government says the plant-like substance is more likely to grow in warm weather. 'Algae blooms can look like fine grass clippings in the water, spilled paint, pea soup or sometimes like a thick scum on the surface,' reads a news release from the province. 'Algae mats can be found in shallow areas of lakes and rivers and along the shoreline; they often look like clumps of vegetation and may appear black, brown or dark green in the water.' The province says testing is unreliable in large bodies of water because blue-green algae can move around, reform and recur. The government warns mats may detach from the bottom and wash up on the shoreline, where they look grey and have a foul odour that may attract dogs. Ingesting blue-green algae can be fatal for pets. When people come in contact with contaminated water it can cause itchy eyes and skin. The province says symptoms worsen if the water is swallowed or breathed in, which can lead to headaches, fever, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. 'Climate change is causing more blue-green algae in our lakes and other freshwater bodies. As summer approaches, we are reminding Nova Scotians about the tools available to help them recognize and prevent exposure so they can enjoy our lakes and other freshwater safely,' said Timothy Halman, minister of Environment and Climate Change, in the release. To reduce your risk, the province recommends: scanning the water and shoreline for blue-green algae before going into fresh water or letting children and pets play in it avoiding contact with blooms not drinking fresh water when swimming or enjoying lakes calling a veterinarian if a pet comes into contact with a bloom with a bloom reporting sightings by calling 1-877-936-8476 For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
