In a collaboration between Utah Valley University and partner universities in Arequipa, Peru-Universidad Nacional San Agustín (UNSA), Universidad Católica Santa María (UCSM), and Universidad Católica San Pablo (UCSP) —along with the Binational Peru-Bolivia Institute Lago Titicaca (ALT), the Peru-Bolivia Lago Titicaca/Utah Lake Project addresses urgent water quality issues. Together, teams are conducting six areas of focused research: (1) studying bioaccumulation and biomagnification of heavy metals in water,
sediments, and fish; (2) assessing microplastic pollution; (3) analyzing nutrient
discharges and their role in algae blooms; (4) using GIS and remote sensing to monitor
algae proliferation; (5) promoting public awareness and environmental education initiatives;
and (6) exploring sustainable algae harvesting methods. This vital international partnership
aims to foster innovative solutions for protecting two of the world's important freshwater
ecosystems.
