Sejong, June 29 - The Ministry of Environment (ME, Minster Han Wha-jin) announced that the ministry is establishing a preparedness system to supply safe tap water even when algal blooms occur in the source water. Out of the twenty-nine algal bloom monitoring sites as of June 23, two (Haepyeong and Chilseo) were in the 'concern' stage, while two (Gangjeong Goryeong and Mulgeum Maeri) were in the ' ' stage. It is assumed that the recent high water temperatures (26℃ and higher) and nationwide drought (54% rainfall compared to previous years) are to blame for the increase of blue-green algae in these areas. The Ministry of Environment, in response, will maintain preparedness for algal bloom and strengthen its cooperation with other related organizations. The ministry will also build a response competency system of water treatment facilities for algal blooms so that tap water safe to drink can be supplied at all times. 

The Basin (Regional) Environmental Offices, Basin Water Support Center (K-water), and local governments selected one hundred two water treatment facilities to inspect their preparedness for algal blooms. The inspecting organizations examined the operation of algal bloom control facilities, stockpiles of water purifying chemicals, such as powdered activated carbon (PAC), and the emergency response system of each facility. As a result, the overall preparedness of the facilities was satisfactory. Those facilities took actions to minimize algal flow at water intake stations, such as installing algal screens and selective water intake. They properly manage control facilities for algal bloom, such as chlorination and advanced equipment. They also secure a stockpile of PAC for ten-day use, monitor algae-related substances, and collaborate with related institutes and emergency response teams.

In addition, the Ministry of Environment conducted intensive inspections of environmental infrastructure and wastewater treatment facilities between algae-prone areas and source water to reduce exposure to contaminants. The ministry also installed algal bloom reduction devices such as water turbines and water circulation facilities around algae-prone areas to reduce algal blooms.

The ministry will conduct mock training and education for the response system at K-water's Human Resources Development Institute (Yuseong-gu, Daejeon) on June 27 to enhance the frontline facility operators' responsiveness to algae. The mock training will assume the worst-case scenario where an extensive volume of green algae occurs in water supply sources and demonstrate the scenario. 

Moreover, starting in July, the Ministry of Environment plans to form a group of forty-four private experts to provide customized technical support to vulnerable water treatment facilities (36 sites) prone to algal blooms. The group will visit each site, identify the problems through process diagnosis and analysis, and deliver solutions.

"The Ministry of Environment will do our best to supply safe tap water even during the summer when green algae frequently occur," said Kim Dong-gu, Director-General of the Integrated Water Policy Bureau. He added, "We will manage water treatment facilities more thoroughly to gain the public's trust in tap water."

Contact: Seo Yoon-sik, Deputy Director

Water Use Planning Division / +82-(0)44-201-7126 

Foreign Media Contact: Chun Minjo(Rachel)

+82-(0)44-201-6055 / rachelmchun@korea.kr