Early manifestation of a fast growing global ecological crisis
Large quantities of red algae have washed up on beaches in Brittany far earlier than usual this year, a phenomenon local officials say is linked to rising temperatures, warmer spring weather and agricultural pollution. While they traditionally take place around the height of summer – often as late as October – these “blooms” (as they are called) increasingly appear in May and June as spring temperatures rise sooner on the heating planet.
Like green algae, red algae present a health risk when large accumulations begin to decompose during periods of hot weather. Some harmful algal blooms produce toxins that cause stomach pain, skin irritation, headaches and respiratory problems. They also release Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) gas, a poison and sometimes lethal gas. Jogger Death By Algae: The 2026 event occurs ten years after a jogger died on the Breton coast from inhaling the gas.
In addition to the warming waters that accelerate algae growth, pollution from large scale pig farms in Brittany contribute to the problem
Globally, algae and toxic seaweed incursions are fouling coastlines around the planet, including Florida, Australia, the Pacific Islands and the extended western coast of Europe. READ MORE
