Eutrophication occurs when lakes, rivers and coastal areas are supplied with too much nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. This leads to increased growth of algae and some nuisance water plants, poorer water quality and, in the worst cases, oxygen deficiency and fish death. The sources are often runoff from agriculture, sewage and atmospheric deposition.
In freshwater, eutrophication leads to turbid water, overgrowth and reduced species diversity. In marine areas, it can result in extensive blooms of harmful algae and seaweeds and bottom areas lacking oxygen.
NIVA monitors the extent of eutrophication in Norwegian waters and carries out research and innovation on solutions to provide knowledge and guidance for sustainable management. Please contact us if you would like to know more about how we can contribute in this area.
