Dual nitrogen and phosphorus control for mitigating eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms

My PhD research focused on improving water quality in lakes affected by eutrophication, a problem caused by excess nutrients in the water. Excess nutrients, especially phosphorus and nitrogen, lead to harmful algal blooms (particularly blue-green algae), which damage ecosystems and make water unsafe for people and animals.
In my work, I tested the feasibility of various natural and modified materials to mitigate excessive nutrient levels and harmful algal blooms by controlling internal nitrogen and phosphorus loads. I found that certain combinations, such as natural zeolite and lanthanum-modified bentonite, can reduce both phosphorus and nitrogen levels and limit their release from lake sediments. An important finding was that reducing nitrogen can be especially effective in controlling harmful algae once blooms have already formed.
Overall, this research provides practical tools for lake restoration, helping turn eutrophic, green lakes into cleaner, healthier environments for both people and nature.