The Stream, April 15: Germany Begins to Address Nutrient Pollution in Water

The Global Rundown

Germany is beginning to tackle nitrogen pollution in its lakes and rivers. Nepal approved a major hydropower dam, a start-up in Portland,Oregon, uses drinking water pipes to create hydropower, and Flint, Michigan invests in a massive new water filter. A mine manager in Guatemala was jailed for a trial over water pollution.

“The country can’t keep claiming to be a global leader in green policies if it does not address the nitrogen problem.”–Heidi Foth, member of the German Advisory Council on the Environment, on the country’s growing recognition of the need to control nutrient pollution in its lakes and rivers. (Yale Environment 360)

By The Numbers

750 megawatts Estimated generating capacity of a hydropower dam Nepal approved this week to be built on the country’s West Seti river. Reuters

$1.5 million Cost of a new water filter the city of Flint, Michigan, plans to install by July amid growing concerns about its water quality. Associated Press

Science, Studies, And Reports

A start-up company in Portland, Oregon, is using the city’s drinking water pipes to create hydropower as water flows through them. The pilot project can create up to 200 kilowatts and may be expanded. PBS News Hour

On The Radar

A judge in Guatemala ordered the general manager of a Canadian-owned mine to be jailed this week before a trial over allegations that the mine polluted water in the Los Esclavos river. Associated Press

Codi Kozacek

A news correspondent for Circle of Blue based out of Hawaii. She writes The Stream, Circle of Blue’s daily digest of international water news trends. Her interests include food security, ecology and the Great Lakes.
Contact Codi Kozacek