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EGGY is a water purification device that uses supersonic technology to break down algae without chemicals. It features real-time monitoring of water quality and can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth. Compact, lightweight, and cost-effective, it offers an affordable solution for businesses, governments, and environmental enthusiasts.
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Algal contamination, particularly harmful algal blooms (HABs), is an escalating environmental concern across the globe. These blooms occur when certain types of algae grow excessively in water bodies due to an abundance of nutrients, often from agricultural runoff, wastewater, or industrial pollution. The resulting contamination can lead to severe ecological, economic, and health-related consequences, making it a critical issue to address.
The ecological impact of algal contamination is significant, as blooms can deplete oxygen levels in the water, creating "dead zones" where aquatic life cannot survive. This disruption harms local ecosystems and leads to a decline in fish populations, affecting biodiversity. Additionally, certain algae species, like cyanobacteria, produce harmful toxins that threaten marine life, birds, and mammals, which can also accumulate in the food chain. The economic consequences are equally devastating, as fishing industries suffer from the loss of marine life and tourism declines due to unsightly or unsafe beaches and lakes. Water treatment facilities also face increased costs in removing toxins from drinking water, putting a strain on public utilities and raising consumer prices.
Human health is at risk due to harmful algal blooms, as they can release neurotoxins and hepatotoxins that are dangerous for those who consume contaminated seafood or drink tainted water. Symptoms of exposure can include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and, in extreme cases, damage to the liver or nervous system. Direct contact with contaminated water can also cause skin rashes, respiratory issues, and eye irritation. Around the world, regions like Lake Erie in the USA, Taihu Lake in China, and the Gulf Coast of Florida have faced significant algal blooms, leading to drinking water advisories, water shortages, and harm to both human and marine life.
Lake Erie during an algal bloom in 2022
Lake Taihu during an algal bloom in 2020