The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement Annex 10: A Comprehensive Guide
The Great Lakes region is home to 20% of the world’s freshwater and provides drinking water to more than 40 million people. However, the water quality in the Great Lakes has been threatened by several factors, including pollution from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, and industrial activities. To address these issues, the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) was signed in 1972 between the United States and Canada. The agreement has been revised several times, with the most recent being in 2012.
One of the key components of the GLWQA is Annex 10, which addresses the control of toxic substances and nutrient pollution in the Great Lakes. This annex recognizes that toxic substances and nutrient pollution are two of the primary threats to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem and human health.
Toxic Substances
Annex 10 of the GLWQA aims to reduce or eliminate the release of persistent toxic substances in the Great Lakes. These substances include mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and other chemicals that can persist in the environment for years and accumulate in living organisms. The annex outlines strategies for monitoring, assessing, and managing toxic substances in the Great Lakes. It also establishes targets for reducing the release of these substances into the environment.
Nutrient Pollution
Nutrient pollution is another major threat to the Great Lakes ecosystem. Nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen can cause harmful algal blooms, which can be toxic to humans and wildlife. Annex 10 of the GLWQA aims to reduce nutrient pollution by establishing targets for reducing the release of nutrients into the Great Lakes. The annex also outlines strategies for monitoring, assessing, and managing nutrient pollution.
Implementation
The GLWQA is implemented through a binational partnership between the United States and Canada. The Great Lakes Executive Committee (GLEC) oversees the implementation of the agreement and is composed of representatives from both countries. The GLEC coordinates the work of several task forces and committees, including the Annex 10 Expert Group. This group provides technical advice and guidance on the implementation of Annex 10.
Conclusion
Annex 10 of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement is a comprehensive strategy for addressing the control of toxic substances and nutrient pollution in the Great Lakes. The annex outlines specific targets and strategies for reducing the release of these substances into the environment and protecting the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem and human health. The implementation of Annex 10 requires cooperation between the United States and Canada and the commitment of both countries to protect the Great Lakes for future generations.