Phosphorus Removal
Deadzones in Rivers, Lakes, and Fjords
When the water becomes oversaturated with phosphorus, dense blankets of algae form which block sunlight and hinders life under the surface. When the algae die and sink, they are decomposed by bacteria consuming large amounts of oxygen. The results are oxygen-depleted zones, or deadzones, where fish and benthic organisms can not survive. Recently, increasing numbers of lakes and fjords in the South of Norway have shown clear signs of phosphorus impact, especially in locations near dense housing or intensive agricultural use.
Our Process
With our proprietary micronutrients, we can stimulate the microorganisms that are already naturally existing in water. When these microorganisms are stimulated, they can increase their ability to bind and convert phosphorus to a non-biologically available form. In this manner, we can remove phosphorus from the water mass, depositing it in sediments, instead of contributing to algae growth and oxygen deficiency. These biological processes are completely natural and does not require the addition of any new bacterias or enzymes, just micronutrients that strengthen the microbes that are already in the water. The result of this is a more balanced microbial activity that reduces phosphorus levels in the oceans, fjords, lakes, and rivers. This restores a healthy ecosystem with clearer water and better living conditions for the fish and other marine organisms.