Satellite Freshwater Quality
Water is a fundamental element, sustaining all life. Monitoring water quality is essential to protect health and wellbeing, the natural world, and business continuity. By harnessing cutting-edge satellite technology, we can address water quality challenges more efficiently than ever before.
Using satellite technology, we currently monitor 936 UK waterbodies in near real-time. This innovative approach offers unprecedented improvements in reporting timelines. Reporting cycles dramatically improve.
Space data is visualised on an interactive cloud platform, delivering granular detail that empowers organisations to make informed decisions. The potential applications are vast, limited only by imagination.
Water quality can be affected by several factors, often with significant consequences. Near real-time monitoring helps organisations to quickly identify and mitigate water quality risks.
We can support your organisation to monitor water quality in water bodies such as rivers, lakes, lochs, reservoirs, and dams. From a vantage point in space we can provide early warning indicators for pollution events including algae blooms and increased turbidity.
Algae bloom identification with satellite monitoring
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can pose serious risks to aquatic ecosystems, public health, and water supplies. With satellite data and advanced modelling, we offer:
- early warning systems to detect the onset of algae blooms;
- insights into bloom dynamics, helping organisations predict and manage their spread;
- public confidence by ensuring water used for recreation or supply is safe.
Use case: Harmful Algal Bloom Intelligent Twin (HABIT) project Lough Neagh
We are one of three successful consortia chosen to develop satellite technology to transform the detection and monitoring of blue green algae in Lough Neagh. The project will showcase how satellite data can be used to develop digital twins for water quality monitoring and management.
Water turbidity indicators flagged from space
Turbidity, or cloudiness in water caused by suspended particles, can affect ecosystem health and water usability. Monitoring turbidity in real time provides:
- continuous updates on water clarity and sediment levels;
- cost-effective solutions to address water treatment needs proactively;
- enhanced understanding of erosion and land-use impacts on water systems.
With our expertise your organisation can stay ahead of potential issues, ensuring the health of communities and the environment.
Dr Peter Hunter explains why lakes are so vital for food, energy, industry and climate change.
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Scotland’s International Environment Centre
This work falls under the remit of Scotland’s International Environment Centre and is funded by the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.