The research aimed to identify potential impacts of intensive tourism activities on the natural integrity of the marine ecosystem in the Blue Lagoon
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Intensive tourism activities have not had a noticeable effect on the biodiversity of the Blue Lagoon area on the peninsula of Akama, according to the initial research estimates, conducted by the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI-Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute) with the support of the Bank of Cyprus,
According to the first findings of the research, which lasted one year (2023-2024), the area did not seem to be affected by tourism activities. However, underwater noise pollution during the arrival, anchoring and departure of the vessels was noticeable, a fact which is confirmed by the high readings recorded by a special hydrophone used during the samplings, as stated in a statement.
The research aimed to identify possible impacts brought about by the intense tourism activities on the natural integrity of the marine ecosystem in the “Blue Lagoon” bay of the Akama Peninsula and as mentioned, moreover, in the marine sediment during the summer season, copper values were observed, which exceed the environmental limits.
The fact is probably due to the increased passage and anchoring of boats in the area, since the antifouling paints that are often used on the outside of boats have copper as a component. Exposure to high concentrations of copper can be environmentally damaging, since they can alter the photosynthetic capacity of algae and affect the growth of other important benthic organisms (e.g. corals) among others. Heavy metals, such as copper, can also bioaccumulate in fish and mollusks affecting the food chain.
The importance of the present study, as stated in the release, lies in the fact that the basis for a long-term study on the possible effects of increased tourist activity in the “Blue Lagoon”.
Scientists from CMMI carried out seasonal sampling (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter) in the Blue Lagoon area, in order to collect water and sediment samples for analyzes aimed mainly at identifying various chemical pollutants (eg, heavy metals, sunscreen ingredients) and microbiological organisms, and to record environmental parameters and the biodiversity of the area (fish fauna and benthic organisms).
The program « “Battle for cleaner seas”, is an initiative of the Bank of Cyprus with the aim of scientific research and the creation of data on the quality of coastal sea water. In 2022-2023, a survey was carried out in the marine area of Marina Agia
Napa, in collaboration with the NGO CYMEPA and the Cyprus University of Technology (TEPAK), the results of which were announced at the end of 2023.
Source: KYPE
Source: cyprustimes.com
