(ANSA) - ISTANBUL, 17 JUN - Over three thousand cubic meters of marine mucilage were collected in the first cleaning week of the Sea of Marmara, south of Istanbul, now invaded by this dense layer of phytoplankton, very harmful to the ecosystem, also known such as mucus or sea saliva. According to Turkish Environment Minister Murat Kurum, removal activities have so far been carried out in 193 locations, mainly in the waters off the Yalova and Alikesir provinces. The extraordinary cleaning plan provides for the collection of mucilage by lowering some barriers into the sea to favor the accumulation of substances, which threaten the survival of various species and fishing, as well as damaging the tourist image of the region.The technical analysts also identified the presence of hydrogen disulfide, an extremely poisonous gas, at about 750 meters deep.
According to experts, the phenomenon is mainly linked to climate change and pollution due to incorrect wastewater disposal in the area, around which about 25 million people live. For this reason, the minister again reported, checks have also been intensified.
As of June 15, the inspections carried out amounted to 3,219, with fines of 10.5 million Turkish lira (almost one million euros) imposed for improper waste disposal. (HANDLE).