Protecting Ukraine’s Water: Responses to Environmental Threats

Ukraine faces a critical water quality crisis, exacerbated by ongoing war and environmental neglect. Satellite analyses reveal widespread contamination in the Dnieper River due to harmful algal blooms, with over 60% of reservoirs showing dangerous levels of chlorophyll and phycocyanin, surpassing WHO standards. In response, LG Sonic has conducted extensive research and published a report to raise awareness about the deteriorating surface water quality in Ukraine, urging immediate global attention and collaborative action to address this escalating environmental issue. To further aid in these efforts, LG Sonic is providing free access to the Water Window platform and invites stakeholders to download the report, enhancing understanding and fostering effective solutions for water management.

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The Dnieper Reservoir

The Dnieper Reservoir, crucial for supplying fresh water to Kiev and supporting the ecological and industrial needs of the region, faces a worrying increase in Phycocyanin levels. This elevation indicates a rise in harmful algal blooms, posing significant risks to public health, industrial uses, and irrigation. From 2021 to 2023, Phycocyanin levels in the reservoir increased significantly, ultimately exceeding WHO standards by 62%.

The Kamianske Reservoir

Crucial for regional water supply, the Kamianske Reservoir has seen a steady rise in Phycocyanin levels from 2021 to 2023, peaking in 2023 at 102% above the WHO’s safety standard. This escalation in algal blooms impacts hydroelectric power generation due to cavitation damage to power generators.

The Kamianske reservoir shows a distribution of chlorophyll-a from west to east, highlighting the impact of the increased load from the Kremenchuk reservoir, which is located upstream. A seasonal behavior of the chlorophyll-a is observed, with the highest concentration peaks in summers between 2021 to 2023.

The Kremenchuk Reservoir

Receiving inflow from the west to east via the Kaniv Reservoir, the Kremenchuk Reservoir is significantly affected by nearby intense agricultural activities. It is also key for hydroelectric power, linked to the Kremenchuk Hydroelectric Power Plant. Increased Phycocyanin presented peaks in the entire series analyzed, almost constantly exceeding the limit value.

What is the Water Window App?

The Water Window App is an advanced remote sensing tool designed for space-based monitoring of water quality. Integrating satellite data and on-site sensors, it serves as an essential resource for efficiently tracking and managing algal blooms in extensive water bodies. The Water Window app offers detailed visualizations and alerts, as well as historical data, enabling users to quickly identify algal blooms and related water quality issues. Its advanced analytics and predictive capabilities facilitate proactive water management, ensuring the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. For additional information on how this technology supports environmental management efforts, please visit LG Sonic Remote Sensing.

Dnieper phycocyanin levels
Kamianske reservoir Bluegreen algae level in Ukraine- Water Quality in Ukraine
Kamianske Reservoir- Ukraine's Water Quality
Kremenchuk Reservoir Phycocyanin levels- Water Quality in Kremenchuk
Water Window application lg sonic- Drinking water quality
Water Window application- Drinking water quality