A Wake For The Lake: Symbolic Funeral For UK’s Largest Freshwater Lake Highlights Rising Environmental Concerns
In a solemn display of environmental activism, a wake was organised at Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland. This was done to draw attention to the ecological devastation brought on by the rampant spread of toxic blue-green algae blooms.
Held at Ballyronan beach, Co Derry, participants dressed in black, and a symbolic coffin was brought to the shores, representing the alarming state of the lough, as reported by Belfast Live
Several factors have contributed to the detrimental growth of the algae. These include excess nutrients from agricultural fertilisers, the invasive Zebra mussels which make the water clearer thereby promoting algal photosynthesis, and the impacts of climate change with Lough Neagh’s temperature rising by one degree Celsius over the past two decades.
Dr. Louise Taylor, a representative from the campaign group Love our Lough, stated, “Lough Neagh has been treated like a dump for decades. It’s in an ecological crisis and now qualifies as a public health emergency.”
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The fallout from the algae blooms isn’t just ecological – it’s deeply personal and economic as well. Birds and dogs have suffered fatalities, fishermen are cautioned against consuming anything they catch, and numerous water-dependent businesses have been forced to halt operations.
Despite the concerns, Northern Ireland Water assures the public of the safety of drinking water sourced from the lough after intensive treatment processes. The challenges of addressing this pressing issue are compounded by the current absence of a devolved government in Northern Ireland.
Nevertheless, advocates like Gerry Darby of the Lough Neagh Partnership emphasise the necessity for proactive leadership and swift actions.
Local residents, like Katie O’Hagan, voiced their distress, with the lough playing a vital role in their recreational activities and, for some, therapeutic routines. The wake serves as a reminder that dedicated efforts are needed to safeguard and restore this crucial ecological asset.
Have you ever visited Lough Neagh?
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