Urbanization Impairs Surface Water Quality: Eutrophication and Metal Stress in the Grand Canal of China

Rapid urbanization significantly degrades surface water quality along the Grand Canal of China, with urban sections showing elevated levels of eutrophic nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as metals that, while within national standards, may still pose risks to aquatic life according to stricter U.S. EPA criteria. The study found a strong correlation between urbanization levels and water quality parameters, particularly electrical conductivity, nutrients, and metals, with industrial activities contributing to metal loadings. These findings highlight the urgent need for mitigation strategies to ensure sustainable urban development along this historic site.

Yu, S., Yu, G. B., Liu, Y., Li, G. L., Feng, S., Wu, S. C., & Wong, M. H. (2011). URBANIZATION IMPAIRS SURFACE WATER QUALITY: EUTROPHICATION AND METAL STRESS IN THE GRAND CANAL OF CHINA. River Research and Applications, 28(8), 1135–1148. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/rra.1501