Could the summer season be cancelled? The most popular Hungarian tourist destination is in danger!
Microplastics and pharmaceutical residues have been found in Lake Balaton. Experts say these particles can potentially cause behavioural and biochemical changes in the environment, putting one of Hungary’s most popular holiday destinations at high risk.
Toxic substances in Lake Balaton
According to the Hungarian Agricultural and Life Sciences University (MATE), microplastics and pharmaceutical residues have been found in Lake Balaton. These polystyrene, polyethylene and contraceptive residues can cause dramatic behavioural and biochemical changes in the flora and fauna of the lake.
Although these are small microplastics, they can trigger acute and chronic effects not only in algae but also in invertebrates and vertebrates, napi.hu reports.
“It is also becoming increasingly clear that contaminants of human origin (e.g. pharmaceutical residues, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and active ingredients of pesticides) may get attached to the surface of microplastics, which may further enhance their toxicity and accumulation in living organisms and the food chain,” the statement reads.
The research team is seeking a grant to continue its work and find a solution to the pressing issue.
The weather is also warming up bringing higher temperatures than in the previous years, which further contributes to fish mortality in Lake Balaton. Large numbers of dead fish have been found lately in the waters.
Shocking price hikes
Not only environmental factors but also price rises can scare tourists away.
According to startlap.hu, the price of the Hungarians’ favourite beach food, lángos, is rising, as are the prices of other beach snacks and beverages, such as beer. Analysts attribute the shocking 30 percent price hike to the skyrocketing energy prices, soaring raw material costs and worsening labour shortages.
Maybe missed a real danger – phizer tried to seal there Covid research study for 75 years until they were ordered to release the massive amount of informatio and it shocking. western media ignores it-same in Hungary – it’s like it didn’t happen.
It’s also like the N2 being blow up and barely made the news here.
Well, just cross the borders. There’s enough real ‘seas’ with actual salty water, couple of hours drive all around us. Balaton is way overpopulated with uneducated people that pollute the envirand those are the results. Thanks for the monkeys who’re responsible.