Research and analysis

Eutrophication risk in English rivers under climate change

This study shows how climate change may increase the risk of eutrophication in English rivers, reducing water quality.

From:
Environment Agency
Published
29 August 2019

Documents

Climate change and eutrophication risk in English rivers: summary

Ref: SC140013/S

PDF, 151 KB, 2 pages

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Climate change and eutrophication risk in English rivers: report

Ref: ISBN 978-1-84911-427-1, SC140013/R

PDF, 2.28 MB, 55 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

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Details

This study shows how climate change may increase the risk of eutrophication (a process in which too much nutrient in water causes algae and higher plants to grow excessively) in slow flowing English rivers, reducing water quality. Algal blooms can be toxic to people and animals as well as requiring additional treatment for drinking water. This study found that residence time, water temperature and exposure to sunlight are particularly important. Managing these factors will help to reduce the risk of algal blooms in the future.

Algal blooms are one manifestation of eutrophication. By understanding future risk, people involved in water quality management can implement a range of cost-effective management solutions to ensure that improvements in water quality in England continue to be achieved.

This work builds on an earlier study published in 2016.

Published 29 August 2019