EUTROPHICATION: DRIVERS IMPACTS AND MANAGEMENT OF NUTRIENT OVERLOAD

Eutrophication is the process whereby aquatic ecosystems become enriched with nutrients particularly nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) resulting in excessive primary production and deleterious changes to water quality, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning. Although eutrophication is a natural aging phenomenon in lakes, accelerated or cultural eutrophication occurs due to human driven nutrient inputs from agriculture, wastewater, and urban runoff. Consequences include algal blooms, hypoxia, loss of biodiversity, and socio economic impacts on fisheries and recreation. This article reviews the causes, ecological effects, and management strategies for eutrophication, highlighting the need for integrated nutrient reduction policies to protect freshwater and coastal environments.