A recent study reveals that algae growth in Canadian lakes, including remote ones, is on the rise due to climate change. Researchers from McGill University and Université Laval examined sediment cores from 80 lakes nationwide, showing an increase in algae levels since the mid-1800s. Lead researcher Hamid Ghanbari highlighted a significant spike in algal growth acceleration, which has multiplied sevenfold since the 1960s, primarily attributed to rising temperatures.
Apart from climate change, excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from various sources like animal manure, fertilizers, stormwater, and wastewater can also fuel algal growth. While algae play a crucial role in the aquatic food chain, an overabundance can lead to adverse effects. The study focused on overall algal growth rather than specific blooms, emphasizing concerns about abnormal proliferation beyond the lakes’ natural cycles.
Excessive algae can jeopardize aquatic ecosystems and human health by compromising water quality, depleting oxygen levels, and producing harmful toxins, as evidenced by incidents along Lake Erie’s shores. Daryl McGoldrick from Environment and Climate Change Canada highlighted the risks to aquatic life from increased algal growth, emphasizing the correlation with warming trends.
Maëlle Tripon of Fondation Rivières noted a direct link between warmer temperatures and heightened algae presence in lakes, stressing the need for global policies to address climate change alongside local initiatives. While local actions like modifying farming practices and reducing impervious urban surfaces are essential, global efforts are crucial for combating algal growth. Ghanbari suggested individual contributions, such as minimizing fertilizer use and proper disposal of household chemicals, to mitigate the impact on lakes.