White Paper for improving the prevention and management of cyanobacterial bloom risks

Summary

This document, which will be developed under the leadership of the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente and taking into account the results obtained across the different territories of the Sudoe area, will include a set of recommendations aimed at their integration into public policies related to the management of water body quality. In general, it will promote a shift from an approach focused on mitigating impacts after they occur towards one based on anticipation, prevention and early detection of cyanobacterial bloom events. In addition, the document will include a detailed analysis of the triggering factors of these phenomena, proposing solutions that enable early action, thereby reducing environmental impacts, associated costs, and restrictions on water uses and economic activities.

Description

This document will be jointly developed, taking into account the results of the pilot actions implemented in each participating territory. Its main objective is to provide strategic guidance and compile good practices to address the risk of cyanobacterial blooms at the scale of the Sudoe area, with the aim of influencing regional and national water quality control strategies.

In particular, it will promote the integration of systems and solutions based on prevention and early detection, enabling action to be taken before environmental damage occurs. It will also propose improving knowledge of triggering parameters through high spatial resolution tools, facilitating the adoption of low-invasive but high-impact measures.

The White Paper will also seek to ensure that its recommendations are integrated into the fourth cycle of hydrological planning foreseen under the Water Framework Directive (2028–2033). To this end, it will rely on the participation and collaboration of key entities across the three countries of the Sudoe area:

  • In Portugal, the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente, responsible for implementing the River Basin Management Plans (PGRH).
  • In Spain, with the support of bodies such as the Guadalquivir and Duero River Basin Authorities, as well as the Consellería de Medio Ambiente of the Generalitat Valenciana.
  • In France, in coordination with stakeholders from the Adour-Garonne Basin Committee, including SMEAG, Eau de Garonne, Agglo Agen and DDT47, within the framework of the preparation of the SDAGE 2028–2033.
Periodo: 2021-2027
Estado: On going
Announcement: 2nd call
Project: Cyan'EAU
Prioridad : 1 - Preserving Sudoe's natural capital and adapting to climate change