Rehevöitymisriskit

Rehevöitymisriskit refers to the risks associated with eutrophication. Eutrophication is a process where a body of water becomes overly enriched with minerals and nutrients, most commonly nitrates and phosphates. This enrichment leads to excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants. The primary cause of eutrophication is often anthropogenic, stemming from agricultural runoff containing fertilizers, sewage discharge, and industrial waste. Natural eutrophication also occurs but at a much slower rate.

The risks associated with eutrophication are significant and multifaceted. The rapid proliferation of algae, often referred to as algal blooms, can block sunlight from reaching submerged vegetation, hindering their growth and impacting the aquatic ecosystem. When these algae and plants die, their decomposition by bacteria consumes large amounts of dissolved oxygen in the water. This oxygen depletion, known as hypoxia or anoxia, can lead to fish kills and the death of other aquatic organisms that depend on oxygen. Certain algal blooms, particularly cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), can produce toxins harmful to wildlife, livestock, and humans who may come into contact with or ingest the contaminated water. Furthermore, eutrophication can alter the biodiversity of a water body, favoring species that tolerate low oxygen levels and reducing the abundance of more sensitive organisms. The aesthetic quality of water bodies can also be negatively impacted, affecting recreational activities and tourism.