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Turin's River Po Chokes on Algae Bloom
16 Jul
Summary
- Turin's River Po is covered in vast algae blooms due to high temperatures.
- The river flow has significantly decreased by 50 percent below its average.
- Over 150 tons of algae removed in three weeks cost approximately 100,000 euros.
Rowers navigating Turin's River Po are contending with extensive algae blooms, a consequence of elevated temperatures in northwest Italy and agricultural runoff. These conditions have fostered rampant plant growth, transforming sections of the river into a dense green slime.
The Po, Italy's longest river, has seen its flow decline significantly, dropping by 50 percent below its yearly average. This reduction is attributed to persistently high temperatures and insufficient rainfall during June and July.
Local residents describe the situation as unprecedented, with the river resembling a 'meadow' and the climate change exacerbating these extreme events. The Deputy Mayor of Turin characterized the proliferation as 'quite exceptional,' noting the river's temperature reaching 28 degrees Celsius.
Agricultural nutrients from livestock farms, including excess nutrients and pesticides, contribute to the thriving environment for these algae. Environmental organizations emphasize that this mass vegetation impacts the food chain by depleting underwater oxygen levels.
Turin is undertaking costly efforts to manage the algae, with over 150 tons removed in three weeks costing approximately 100,000 euros. This involves uprooting the plants to prevent regrowth and contamination. While the growth is expected to slow in autumn, the city must prepare for recurrences in the spring.
