The expert called for the introduction of a risk model for the Black Sea beaches
For Sochi and the entire Black Sea coast, it is necessary to introduce a risk model that involves informing tourists about possible pollution, Vadim Petrov, deputy director of the VNII Ekologiya Unified Scientific Center of the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Chairman of the Public Council at the Russian Hydrometeorological Service, said in an interview with Izvestia.
"In Sochi and along the entire coast, a system is needed in which, after heavy rains, accidents on the nets or the detection of a fecal plume, a temporary warning is introduced for swimmers, and the planned test result is not expected," he said.
Uncleaned household sewage is dangerous for several reasons at once, the expert warned. First, it carries bacteria, viruses, and protozoa that can cause intestinal infections. Secondly, this pollution worsens the condition of bottom communities. Thirdly, nitrogen and phosphorus contribute to eutrophication, blooming of water and degradation of coastal ecosystems. Fourthly, microplastics, surfactants, remnants of medicines and household chemicals get into the water.
At the same time, the expert called incorrect the statement that sewage is the main cause of rotavirus infections among vacationers in Sochi: this is just one of the risk factors.
"WHO's international practice proceeds from a simple logic: a beach is safe not when a good sample is obtained once, but when all sources of pollution are known, a warning system works after rains and accidents, sampling points are representative, and data is available to the public. This should become a mandatory standard for Sochi and other resorts on the Black Sea coast," the source said.
Read more in the Izvestia article.:
Sochi black: how a seaside resort is being ruined by uncleaned sewage
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
