Northern Ireland Launches Research Initiative to Address Blue-Green Algae in Lough Neagh

Funding is available to organisations in Northern Ireland to explore potential solutions to treat and reduce blue-green algae blooms without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland waterways.

The Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for the Economy have launched a new Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) competition in response to increasing concerns over the impact of blue-green algae on water quality and aesthetics. The algae, particularly prevalent in Lough Neagh in 2023, are fuelled by excessive nutrients from agriculture and wastewater, rising temperatures, and invasive species. The competition seeks innovative methods to treat and suppress these blooms, with the goal of developing practical and environmentally friendly solutions.

Phase 1 of the competition focuses on demonstrating the technical feasibility of proposed solutions. Five successful applicants will receive grants of up to £90,000 each to develop proof-of-concept studies. This phase is set to run until March 2025, with a potential Phase 2 to follow in the 2025-2026 financial year.

Organisations with a viable route to market can apply. Projects must offer practical, energy-efficient solutions for algae treatment that can be scaled and applied to other Northern Ireland waterways. Solutions must also ensure they do not contribute to further environmental degradation or increase water toxicity. Additionally, proposals should address the safe disposal or utilisation of extracted algae biomass.

The deadline for Phase 1 applications is 13 September 2024. For more information, please visit Lough Neagh : Blue Green Algae | SBRI NI (simplydo.co.uk)