Help prevent algae blooms on the Lakes of Killarney

ONE of the active ingredients in many laundry detergents is phosphate, which contains the mineral phosphorous. Phosphates are binding agents that suspend dirt in wash water, so that the dirt rinses away. Phosphorous is also a food source for algae and other plant life and is necessary for their growth.

While there are many phosphate-free detergents on the market, others still contain phosphates. Even with secondary treatment at waste water plants not all the phosphates will be removed. These will eventually end up in the environment and, in excessive amounts, they can cause algae growth in fresh water bodies such as the Lakes of Killarney.

Since 1 lb. of phosphorous can grow 700 lbs. of algae, a small amount of phosphorous can have huge effects. Although it has been several years since there were serious problems with an algae growth in Lough Leane, this current warm, calm weather produces the conditions where it could occur.

Algae are necessary to a healthy freshwater ecosystem and form the basis of the food chain. However, excessive algae growth is dangerous to freshwater ecosystems, because it causes a reduction of light and oxygen and, as a result, changes the water pH, making it more acidic. When aquatic plants do not get the light they need in order to complete photosynthesis, they begin to die. Fish that feed on those plants lose a food source, and they are killed by the lack of oxygen in the water.

The Lough Leane Management Committee, which is made up of sectors who use the lakes or whose activities can have an impact on them, meet a number of times a year to ensure that The Lakes of Killarney remain free from such damaging algae blooms. This year they are appealing to local businesses and the wider community to choose their washing detergents with care. At this time of year, with Kerry, and Killarney in particular, experiencing large numbers of visitors, businesses in the hospitality sector can play a part by ensuring they use phosphate free detergents. A quick check on the container will reveal the presence of phosphates which will damage the lake, or zeolites which are the preferred option and will have less impact. With this simple change, you could help ensure the Lakes of Killarney remain clear from an algae bloom, which would create a lot of negative publicity for Killarney and the county generally.