Lough Neagh: Blue Green Algae Research Initiative

The five successful suppliers of Phase one of the Lough Neagh: Blue Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) pictured with DAERA and SIB officials at the introductory meeting. Last month, Minister Muir launched the first phase of this initiative, which has been developed to explore solutions to treat and reduce Blue Green Algae blooms without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland waterways.

DAERA contributed £200,000 towards the initiative, with the Department for the Economy (DfE) contributing £250,000 through its SBRI Challenge Fund. The competition attracted considerable interest nationally and internationally, with almost 200 initial expressions of interest and 53 actual bids being received.

The successful bids selected will allow proofs of concept to be developed in several areas, including the use of ultrasonics, mechanical treatment, and biological treatment.

However, we must remember, this alone will not solve the Blue Green Algae crisis. This initiative is only one action outlined in my 37-point Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan, which paves the way forward for improved water quality and reduced Blue Green Algae.

Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: "My Department's SBRI Challenge Fund supports innovative solutions to complex challenges such as that at Lough Neagh. I welcome DAERA's appointment of five suppliers to move this research project to the next phase, where potential solutions can be explored and developed."

It is anticipated that phase one will run through to March 2025 with a potential call for a phase two applications commencing summer 2025.