On Breton beaches, sensors to measure the toxicity of green algae

It is a real scourge in Brittany, which is expecting another complicated summer. The proliferation of decaying green algae on the beaches. Not only do they give off a very strong smell that bothers tourists, but the gas that emanates from them is very toxic. A wound for the municipality of Hillion in the Côtes-d’Armor, which was forced to close access to the beach of Saint Guimond Many times.

It must be said that the gas fumes due to the decomposition of algae are very dangerous for health. Hydrogen sulphide can cause disorders ranging from simple discomfort to serious discomfort or even death depending on the concentration released, according to the Regional Health Agency. In the region, this gas has already caused the death of horses, dogs and wild boars.

Twelve beaches in Côtes d’Armor and Finistère most exposed to this phenomenon have chosen to install sensors to measure the level of hydrogen sulphide linked to these green tides. The objective is to inform and protect the general public and above all, to make the right decisions in the event of danger. The data provided by these sensors is available on the Air Breizh website.

The association which measures air quality has already alerted state services when the level of hydrogen sulphide was too high. The excess threshold is set at 1 ppm (part per million), as recommended by the High Council for Public Health. At this threshold, the human body generally detects a smell of rotten eggs.