Key Scottish Environment Statistics 2012
This publication aims to provide an easily accessible reference document which offers information on a wide range of environmental topics. It covers key datasets on the state of the environment in Scotland, with an emphasis on the trends over time wherever possible.
Nitrate Concentrations in Rivers[10]: 1993-2011
Distribution of mean nitrate concentrations, percentage of sites[11] within each band
The enrichment of waters by nutrients, such as nitrates and phosphates, may lead to damage to the aquatic environment through the accelerated growth of algae and other plant life. The rapid growth and subsequent decay of plant organisms depletes oxygen levels, and this can have harmful effects upon fish and other aquatic life. This process is termed eutrophication.
High nitrate levels tend to have a greater impact on marine and coastal waters than on freshwater; a substantial part of the nitrates in freshwater will eventually reach the sea. The main source of nitrates in freshwater is agriculture.
Concentrations of nitrate below 0.3 mg N/l are considered to be natural or background levels[12]; since 2007, over 40% of the sites have met this classification. In 2011, 41.0% of sites had a mean nitrate concentration < 0.3 mg N/l. The percentage of sites with average nitrate concentrations ≥2.5 mg N/l peaked at 25.5% in 1997, but has since fallen to its lowest level of 15.6% in 2011.
Regulations have been made designating 14% of the area of Scotland[13] as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs).[14] In NVZs, mandatory rules on farming practices aim to reduce nitrate water pollution from agricultural sources.
Contact
Email: Sandy McPhee
There is a problem
Thanks for your feedback