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Water Hyacinth - Friend or Foe

2001
This plant is regarded as a gift of the gods by some people while to others it is regarded as one of the worst aquatic alien invaders that must be eradicated at all costs. It has spread throughout the world crippling the rivers and lakes in many countries. Africa is particularly badly affected. Many people are unaware that the massive growth of water hyacinth is a direct result of man - we pollute the rivers and water hyacinth thrives on the nitrate rich waters. All around people are beginning to use this plant as a resource for self help schemes. It is a valuable plant that is being used to purify polluted water.Our attitude to this noxious weed has changed since we started this project. We believe that one has to look at the cause of the problem which is pollution. When the nations in Africa and the world work together to sort this out, only then will water hyacinth be brought under control. We have come to believe that the symptom which is the water hyacinth should be utilised effectively.