Dirty discharge must be taken under control as a solution for the Mucilage in Marmara

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Engineering, Environmental Engineering Program Coordinator Prof. Dr. Rana Kıdak, speaking in relation to the Mucilage/Sea Saliva at Marmara Sea for some time, provided information in relation to its effects upon the Mediterranean Sea.

Pointing out that humanity has been causing environmental problems since the middle of the 20th century, Kıdak noted that the natural balance of the world has rapidly deteriorated.

Stating that such problems arise due to similar reasons, whether as air pollution, as a solid waste problem, or whether we’re faced with a problem such as mucilage, Prof. Dr. Kıdak went on to say, "Unplanned and irregular urbanization/industrialization, which lacks infrastructure, pushes us and our children further away from leading sustainable and healthy lives."

Explaining that the main reasons for the last environmental disaster; the formation of mucilage, is the warming due to climate change, and organic pollutants containing particularly Carbon (C), Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P), Kıdak continued, “These organic pollutants that create mucilage and cover all parts of the sea, are the food of living creatures. Marmara, which has been polluted by wastewater discharges for many years, in connection to the increasing temperatures, the accumulation of mucilage has occurred, as a result of the excessive proliferation of mucilage-forming organisms.

Advising that the most "urgent" action plan in locating a solution, is to control the pollutant discharges, Prof. Dr. Kıdak explained that pollutants may originate from domestic or industrial areas, as well as from agricultural areas.

Explaining that biological treatment units and Nitrogen and Phosphorus removal units that are called tertiary treatment units, should be operated properly in the treatment of wastewater, Kıdak noted that it is also important to invest in the necessary expert personnel for this.

Highlighting that treatment plants do not work, as they have been ignored for years and operated in a manner far from science, Prof. Dr. Kıdak emphasized that at these plants, serious action plans should be established in terms of control and supervision.

Reminding that the Mediterranean Sea has a larger capacity when compared to the Marmara Sea, Kıdak concluded, “We think that it will be far from the danger of mucilage for a while. However, in the event that countries who have a Mediterranean coast do not comply with protective measures, it is not difficult to see that these and similar problems will increase.