The aspiration to enhance the water quality of Hartbeespoort Dam has been revitalized with the introduction of a pioneering ‘nanobubble’ technology. This innovative project, spearheaded by BluePlanet South Africa, aims to address the well-known eutrophic conditions of the dam, primarily caused by the invasive hyacinth.
Marcel Esterhuysen, the operations director for BluePlanet SA, disclosed that the company was chosen by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and Magalies Water to lead this project following a rigorous request-for-information process in 2023.
David Magae, the spokesperson for Magalies Water, emphasised that BluePlanet SA’s involvement at the dam is part of a research project and trial phase, rather than a fully implemented project. The company is responsible for the installation and operation of a nanobubble generator, as well as the training of employees from Magalies Water and DWS in the operation of this advanced technology.
The groundbreaking nanobubble technology operates by extracting water from the air and converting oxygen into ozone through a generator, ultimately decomposing organic matter, odours, and killing pathogenic bacteria. This approach also enhances dissolved oxygen levels in the water, improving the decomposition of microorganisms in water or river sediment, and breaking down pollutants such as E. coli bacteria and total coliforms, thereby increasing water clarity.
John Wesson, regional chair of the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA, expressed concerns about the use of the technology on a large body of water like Hartbeespoort Dam, which covers over 2,000 hectares. The method is typically used on smaller bodies of water, and Wesson voiced worries about potential adverse effects on the community and cost implications, particularly in terms of electricity usage.
Amidst these concerns, the positive impact of the nanobubble technology on the pilot site has been undeniable, with a significant increase in oxidation-reduction potential and dissolved oxygen, accompanied by a substantial reduction in nutrients and an overall enhancement in water quality, according to Magae.
Despite initial scepticism, Esterhuysen affirmed that the trial has shown promising signs since its commencement at the end of January 2024, especially in the vicinity of the generator. The project is anticipated to run for a year, but specific data and financial details remain undisclosed due to a non-disclosure agreement between the company and Magalies Water.
Magae concluded by highlighting the significant improvements in water quality and reduction in dam coverage by floating plants, attributable to this unprecedented intervention. The ultimate goal remains to effectively mitigate nutrient loading at the source through various tried and tested technologies for nutrient reduction and water improvement.
This revolutionary ‘nanobubble’ technology presents a ray of hope for the restoration of Hartbeespoort Dam’s water quality, paving the way for a potential transformation in water management practices and environmental conservation initiatives.