Menu
05/08/2024
DAERA Minister Launches New Blue-Green Algae Initiative
A new initiative designed to explore potential solutions to address the ongoing blue-green algae issues at Lough Neagh.
Phase one of the Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), has been launched by Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir.
The Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae SBRI is being developed to explore potential solutions to treat and reduce Blue-Green Algae blooms without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland water ways.
The SBRI has two phases and will be expected to follow the standard approach:
• Phase one: Five applicants selected to develop proof of concepts. A total funding package of £450k has been secured via DAERA and the Department for the Economy (DfE) through its SBRI Challenge Fund for Phase one; and
• Phase two: Two to three concepts selected and developed as potential pilot solutions.
Minister Muir said: "I am pleased to announce the launch of Phase one of the Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), supported by funding from both my Department and the Department for the Economy."
"We all have a responsibility to work collectively to deliver sustainable solutions to address the issues facing Lough Neagh and to return it to its rightful state as an ecological jewel at the heart of Northern Ireland.
"I understand that this SBRI initiative will not fully address the Blue-Green Algae problems, however it will contribute, along with the other actions contained in the Lough Neagh report, to help deliver my vision to have a healthy, resilient environment with high water quality status and environment standards thereby contributing to the health and wellbeing of our citizens."
Minister Muir added: "Whilst much attention has been devoted to the issues with BGA in Lough Neagh I am equally focussed on water quality issues across Northern Ireland and this work will hopefully provide solutions that can be applied to any area that has been affected by the emergence of BGA."
Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: "My Department’s SBRI Challenge Fund supports the development of innovative solutions to complex public policy challenges. Lough Neagh is a vital asset for the local community and for the north as a whole so it is welcome that the fund will be used to formulate a solution to the Blue-Green Algae in Lough Neagh."
There is scope for physical, chemical or biological, or a combination of solutions, but whatever solution is developed it must not contribute to further environmental degradation. It must also comply with legislation and environmental designations.
The application window for Phase one is open for six weeks. Applications must be received by 3pm on Friday 13th September.
It is anticipated that Phase one will run through to March 2025 with a potential call for a phase two applications commencing summer 2025.
Anyone wishing to apply can do so here.
A supplier information event will be held online on Wednesday 14th August for anyone wishing to obtain more details. Registration is required and is available at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lough-neagh-blue-green-algae-phase-1-sbri-information-event-tickets-964869048297
Phase one of the Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), has been launched by Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir.
The Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae SBRI is being developed to explore potential solutions to treat and reduce Blue-Green Algae blooms without impacting the natural environment of Lough Neagh and associated Northern Ireland water ways.
The SBRI has two phases and will be expected to follow the standard approach:
• Phase one: Five applicants selected to develop proof of concepts. A total funding package of £450k has been secured via DAERA and the Department for the Economy (DfE) through its SBRI Challenge Fund for Phase one; and
• Phase two: Two to three concepts selected and developed as potential pilot solutions.
Minister Muir said: "I am pleased to announce the launch of Phase one of the Lough Neagh: Blue-Green Algae Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), supported by funding from both my Department and the Department for the Economy."
"We all have a responsibility to work collectively to deliver sustainable solutions to address the issues facing Lough Neagh and to return it to its rightful state as an ecological jewel at the heart of Northern Ireland.
"I understand that this SBRI initiative will not fully address the Blue-Green Algae problems, however it will contribute, along with the other actions contained in the Lough Neagh report, to help deliver my vision to have a healthy, resilient environment with high water quality status and environment standards thereby contributing to the health and wellbeing of our citizens."
Minister Muir added: "Whilst much attention has been devoted to the issues with BGA in Lough Neagh I am equally focussed on water quality issues across Northern Ireland and this work will hopefully provide solutions that can be applied to any area that has been affected by the emergence of BGA."
Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: "My Department’s SBRI Challenge Fund supports the development of innovative solutions to complex public policy challenges. Lough Neagh is a vital asset for the local community and for the north as a whole so it is welcome that the fund will be used to formulate a solution to the Blue-Green Algae in Lough Neagh."
There is scope for physical, chemical or biological, or a combination of solutions, but whatever solution is developed it must not contribute to further environmental degradation. It must also comply with legislation and environmental designations.
The application window for Phase one is open for six weeks. Applications must be received by 3pm on Friday 13th September.
It is anticipated that Phase one will run through to March 2025 with a potential call for a phase two applications commencing summer 2025.
Anyone wishing to apply can do so here.
A supplier information event will be held online on Wednesday 14th August for anyone wishing to obtain more details. Registration is required and is available at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lough-neagh-blue-green-algae-phase-1-sbri-information-event-tickets-964869048297
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
04 December 2003
Lough Neagh area to receive £3.2m funding support
The Lough Neagh area is to benefit from a funding package of £3.2 million for a major regeneration initiative. The funding was unveiled today at the formal launch of the Lough Neagh Strategic Fund in the Marina Centre, Ballyronan, Magherafelt.
Lough Neagh area to receive £3.2m funding support
The Lough Neagh area is to benefit from a funding package of £3.2 million for a major regeneration initiative. The funding was unveiled today at the formal launch of the Lough Neagh Strategic Fund in the Marina Centre, Ballyronan, Magherafelt.
28 March 2024
Executive Committed To Protecting Lough Neagh
The Executive has committed to "taking the necessary action to protect and better manage" Lough Neagh. First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said that the protection of Lough Neagh and the surrounding environment is a key priority for the Executive.
Executive Committed To Protecting Lough Neagh
The Executive has committed to "taking the necessary action to protect and better manage" Lough Neagh. First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said that the protection of Lough Neagh and the surrounding environment is a key priority for the Executive.
02 March 2007
Funders join forces to enhance wildlife habitat
Regular visitors to the RSPB Reserve at Portmore Lough will have noticed that the wet fringe of scrub and bushes around the Lough is disappearing fast. The bird hide that was once shrouded in willow and alder trees, can now be seen sitting proud above the reedbed.
Funders join forces to enhance wildlife habitat
Regular visitors to the RSPB Reserve at Portmore Lough will have noticed that the wet fringe of scrub and bushes around the Lough is disappearing fast. The bird hide that was once shrouded in willow and alder trees, can now be seen sitting proud above the reedbed.
09 February 2024
'Investment, Commitment And Partnership' Needed For Lough Neagh
Addressing the issues at Lough Neagh will take "investment, commitment and partnership working over decades", Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has said.
'Investment, Commitment And Partnership' Needed For Lough Neagh
Addressing the issues at Lough Neagh will take "investment, commitment and partnership working over decades", Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has said.
23 August 2006
Zebra Mussels continue to spread
The Department of the Environment (DOE) has confirmed concern that Zebra Mussels have spread to Lough Neagh. Zebra Mussels were first discovered in Northern Ireland in Lough Erne in 1997 and every effort has since been made to prevent their spread to other waterways.
Zebra Mussels continue to spread
The Department of the Environment (DOE) has confirmed concern that Zebra Mussels have spread to Lough Neagh. Zebra Mussels were first discovered in Northern Ireland in Lough Erne in 1997 and every effort has since been made to prevent their spread to other waterways.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
