Harmful Algal Bloom Mitigation Assessment
Evaluated the potential use of modified clay technology to mitigate harmful algal blooms in South Australian waters, providing evidence-based guidance on environmental risks, regulatory considerations, and operational feasibility for decision-makers.
Location: South Australia – Gulf waters
Client/Sector: Marine environmental management / emergency response
Challenge:
A large harmful algal bloom affecting South Australian coastal waters prompted investigation into potential mitigation options. Decision-makers required an independent scientific assessment of whether modified clay technology—used internationally to control harmful algal blooms—could be safely and effectively applied in South Australian marine environments.
Aquatic Assessments Role:
Aquatic Assessments contributed scientific analysis evaluating the technical effectiveness, environmental risks, regulatory considerations, and operational feasibility of using modified clays to mitigate harmful algal blooms. The work included reviewing global case studies, assessing algal removal efficiency, evaluating ecological risks to benthic habitats and non-target species, and developing a draft risk management and monitoring framework using a Before-During-After-Control-Impact (BDACI) approach. Cost estimates, operational logistics, and regulatory pathways under South Australian environmental legislation were also examined.
Outcome:
The assessment provided decision-makers with an evidence-based evaluation of the potential use of modified clay technology to mitigate harmful algal blooms, including key environmental safeguards, monitoring requirements, and operational considerations necessary for pilot trials in South Australian waters.