Measuring Dissolved Oxygen
Dissolved oxygen is the lifeblood for aquatic organisms, signaling the water's capacity to support biodiversity, and is a key indicator used to measure water quality.
Continuous Water Quality Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of dissolved oxygen in surface water serves as the lifeblood of aquatic ecosystems, sustaining both flora and fauna in a delicate balance. As the oxygen levels fluctuate, so does the vitality of our waters—a decrease could signify pollution, elevated temperatures, or other environmental stressors.
By keeping a constant watch on this crucial metric, we create a form of aquatic vigilance that permits proactive measures rather than reactive remedies. This is not just data; it's a real-time narrative of environmental well-being. Businesses, regulators, and communities thereby gain a powerful tool to align their goals, marrying economic progress with the inherent value of thriving biodiversity.
Freshwater Policies
In New Zealand the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FW) mandates continuous dissolved oxygen (DO) monitoring over the summer months at key discharge points. Summer's higher temperatures can reduce DO levels, exacerbating the impact of discharges and thereby posing a heightened risk to aquatic life.
This policy provision is more than a mere administrative requirement; it serves as a crucial safeguard, mediating the interaction between industrial activities and natural habitats. By doing so, it fosters a balance where both economic aspirations and ecological imperatives can co-exist, creating a harmonious interface between human activity and the health of our wai and whenua.
