Space-Age Solution for Ireland’s Largest Lake: £800,000 Invested to Combat Noxious Algae Blooms in Lough Neagh
Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland – A new, high-tech approach is being launched to tackle the recurring and worsening problem of toxic algae blooms in Lough Neagh, Ireland’s largest freshwater lake. Following three consecutive summers plagued by noxious blue-green algae,the UK Space Agency has awarded £800,000 (€920,000) to develop a cutting-edge space technology monitoring system.
The funding,part of phase 2 of the Space Agency’s Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) program,will run through April 2026 and aims to provide a comprehensive solution for predicting,detecting,and monitoring these harmful algal blooms. This year’s outbreak has been described by locals as the worst on record, raising serious concerns about the lake’s ecosystem and recreational use.
“Using space technology to forecast and monitor blue-green algae is part of wider interventions to help improve Lough Neagh water quality,” stated Andrew Muir, Northern Ireland’s Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister.”This investment moves us from research to real-world solutions, giving our teams earlier, more accurate facts and improving our monitoring capability.”
How Will Space Technology Help?
The project will leverage the power of satellite technology and Earth observation to provide a more proactive and informed response to the algae blooms. Currently, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) employs a combined strategy of satellite intelligence, on-site measurements, and public health guidance. This new system promises to considerably enhance that capability.
Chris McQuire,senior lead for the UK Space Agency’s unlocking space for government programme,emphasized the broader benefits of the initiative.”Through our unlocking space for government programme, we’re backing cutting-edge solutions that harness the power of satellite technology…This investment shows how space technology can deliver practical benefits for communities and the environment, whilst also strengthening the UK’s position as a leader in space innovation.”
The project will be spearheaded by Plastic-i and newcastle University, tasked with transforming promising research concepts into fully operational tools. Robert Hill, NI Space cluster manager, highlighted the potential of space technology to address a wide range of environmental challenges.
The Problem with blue-Green algae
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. Blooms occur when nutrient levels in the water are excessively high, often due to agricultural runoff and other pollution sources. The algae can cause skin irritation, illness if ingested, and can be fatal to pets and livestock. The recurring blooms in Lough Neagh are a clear indicator of underlying environmental issues requiring urgent attention.
This investment represents a meaningful step towards safeguarding lough Neagh’s future and demonstrates the innovative submission of space technology to address pressing environmental concerns.
Keywords: Lough Neagh, blue-green algae, algae bloom, UK Space Agency, satellite technology, environmental monitoring, Northern Ireland, water quality, environmental protection, space innovation.
