Nitrogen use leads to algae blooms on Danish coasts

Denmark’s coasts are seeing earlier and larger amounts of ‘fedtemøg,’ slimy algae clusters, this year, reports biologist Kaare Manniche Ebert. The situation has worsened with the first sightings reported by anglers on March 20. Professor Stiig Markager links the increase to winter’s heavy rains and nitrogen from farming flushed into waterways and coasts. This trend has been building over 10 years. When algae detach, they decay on shores, emitting foul odors. Vejle Fjord is notably affected, leading to a symbolic ‘funeral’ by environmental groups and funding from the government for an emergency package to reduce nitrogen and improve water quality. Actions include modifying watercourse dynamics, taking farmland out of use, and lake restoration, states Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke.