Eutrophication-a worldwide water quality issue

Abstract

In this introductory chapter of the book, the description of the eutrophication phenomenon was developed, while the generating causes of the phenomenon and its effects on the natural environment have been investigated. Besides, in this chapter the research has focused on the phosphorus cycle in water, disclosing the critical contribution of internal nutrient loads to the eutrophication phenomenon. The contribution of internal nutrient fluxes has been systematically approached in alignment with several examples of ecosystems' suffering from eutrophication, while the managerial need of these nutrient sources to mitigate eutrophication has been signified. Finally, the socio-economic effects of eutrophication were reported, showing that eutrophication intensity in water sources is a deterring phenomenon of the recreational activities that were also resulting in a loss of income. There are not precise and consistent norms of valuating financial losses while failing to apply suitable eutrophication treatment at natural water sources (for others, being appreciated as invaluable). However, in a pragmatic scientific approach, the expected per-person annual damages should range at tenths up to hundreds of €, while the communal collective responsibility among densely inhabited populations can reach tenths of billion €, or even more. Therefore, the significance of appreciating natural water sources and keeping a good eutrophication status remains a critical, yet disputable and contentious, issue.