Today's post is going to be a response to a question from my mom (thanks for the question by the way!). She asks, "do you know anything about all the algae that China has had to clean out of the water for the people that compete on the water? Is there a problem where you are? Is this just in Shanghai? Let us know." That is an excellent question and I should have brought up the issue earlier. I do need to clarify quickly that this is (as far as I know) only a problem in Qingdao. I know nothing about Shanghai.
From an article that I just looked up from China Daily, it appears that the height of the problem occurred a bit earlier in May, June, and July. According to the article, "the algae, called enteromorpha prolifera, was first detected on May 31 off the Dagong Island, well out to sea. It currently covers one-third of the 50 square kilometers to be used for the sailing."
One-third of the area was affected! That was on July 3, just a couple of weeks ago. The algae just began to grow and grow and it got out of control. They organized about 10,000 locals to help out and were able to shovel out 170,000 tons the green stuff. Other measures were taken as well; oil buffers, which is a type of marine fence, was also put in place.
When I arrived, I saw no trace of any the algae problem. Apparently, all of the algae was already disposed of. I think the Chinese worked over-time to make sure that nothing would come in the way of the regatta sailing. No one really talks much about it either, so this is really all I know about the problem.
That's it for today. I'm about to turn in. Ten hour days are just exhausting!
3 comments:
Thanks for that explanation.
Here's another question.
Please tell us what you are translating and what your typical day is like. I want to picture what you are doing and where you are.
Thanks Derik.
I love you,
MOM
I'm actually more concerned about the air pollution in China. Do you think it is in a very severe condition?
Dear Derek,
I just recieved your blog site from your family and have loved reading all about your adventures in Asia. Wow! The experiences you're having, the people you're meeting, the places your seeing, and the Olympics coming up will all be lasting memories for you.
Yes, like your mom asks...I too would like to hear about a typical day for you. I'd like to read about the family you're staying with, the area you're in, distance to your work, etc. . Also, are your working as a translator for China or for the US? Have any of the foreign or US sailing crews begun coming yet? Are you restricted from talking about your Father to others? Too bad I didn't get that Starbucks card to you before you left...it would have come in handy when you were out for coffee with the French guy at the Starbucks. You'll just have to wait until you get home. love,
t. anja
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