A review on harmful algae blooms in Arabian Gulf: causes and impacts on desalination plants

Abstract

The harmful algal bloom (red tides) (HAB) phenomenon is an issue for desalination facilities. This paper reviews the causes and impacts of HABs on desalination plants. Some HABs are linked to the creation of natural pollutants, dissolved oxygen depletion, and other negative consequences. Because desalination facilities are the principal source of freshwater for communities, agriculture, and industry for middle eastern arid nations, the disruption of plant operations by red tide poses a danger to the availability of drinkable water and can constitute an extraordinary HABs impact. Desalination plants are responsible for pollutants added to the Gulf seawater via outfall systems. Consequently, desalination projects must undergo an environmental impact assessment (EIA), considering accepted environmental characteristics and criteria. EIA assesses the potential effects on air, land, and sea water qualities, techniques to mitigate their impact.