Several rivers and lakes in Uppland are or have been affected by eutrophication and algal blooms.

One of these areas was Sandviksbadet in Björklinge, which in the summer was unprofitable due to eutrophication.

The coast of the catchment area not approved

Now, the county administrative board has surveyed Uppland's watercourses and in connection with this has established that over 80 percent of the water does not achieve good ecological status.

- It may be too high levels of environmental toxins and nutrients, which also affects fish and bottom animals, says Gunilla Lindgren, environmental investigator at the county administrative board.

The survey also shows that the water along the Uppland coast does not reach Sweden's environmental goals.

Hard to get rid of all phosphorus

One cause of eutrophication and algal blooms is the amount of phosphorus and drug residues found in the water. Uppsala Wastewater Treatment Plant does not currently remove residues from medicines. About 98 percent of the phosphorus is removed, but that is more than nature can handle.

Would it be possible to remove all phosphorus?

- Well, maybe. Major economic and chemical efforts would be required, says Walter Johansson at Uppsalavatten.

In the clip you can hear more about how eutrophication affects the waters of the Uppland coast.