In mid-February, the beaches of Lake Salto Grande and the Uruguay River in Entre Ríos were contaminated by a cyanobacteria phenomenon that turned the water a phosphorescent green and caused alarm, especially after capybaras covered in these algae were observed.
Although the water later returned to its normal parameters, the problem persists as a lurking concern for environmentalists and riverside communities.
Environmentalists’ Actions and Demands for the Pollution of the Uruguay River and other beaches
The environmental group Brote Nativo submitted a formal request to the municipality, invoking laws on access to public information, to learn about the environmental policies related to the phenomenon.
In their demand, they seek details on the regulation of agrochemicals, sewage treatment, and industrial pollution, the main factors contributing to the growth of cyanobacteria.
Silvia Burgos, from the Environmental Assembly of Concordia, pointed out in an interview with Diario Junio that pollution from agrochemicals, sewage and industrial waste increases every year, intensifying the proliferation of “green slime” in the region.
This phenomenon not only affects recreation and tourism, but also essential activities such as fishing and the livelihood of riverside families.
Insufficient Policies and Abandoned Projects
The only visible containment measure so far has been the installation of traffic lights on the beaches, indicating the safety of the water for recreational activities. However, environmentalists warn that these signals do not address the underlying causes of the problem.
Burgos mentioned a project for a sewage treatment plant in Concordia, developed five years ago with community participation. Although the city of Gualeguaychú managed to obtain international financing for its own plant, the Concordia project was abandoned.
Impacts and the Need for Action
The advancement of cyanobacteria severely affects water quality, biodiversity, and food security.
Environmentalists insist that the municipality and governments must take concrete measures to mitigate this problem before the consequences become irreversible.
Prevention, Care, and Recommendations
The proliferation of cyanobacteria can affect beaches for hours or days, with possible impacts on health. The best prevention measure is to carefully observe the water and sand. If the water has a greenish color, a cloudy appearance, or accumulations of foam-like material, it is recommended to avoid direct contact.
The main routes of exposure are through direct water ingestion (which can occur unintentionally when practicing water sports, or when children and pets play in the water) or direct skin contact. The greater the amount of water ingested, either all at once or in small quantities, the higher the risk of intoxication.
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