Walter Finch
BEACH go-ers on the Costa del Sol can swim a little easier after a new study deemed the sea water quality to be ‘excellent’.
The report, by the University of Malaga (UMA), states that the coastal waters meet all European Union standards for beach hygiene.
Scientists conducted a microbiological analysis of seawater samples taken from various Costa del Sol beaches last month.
The analysis looked for traces of faecal matter (enterococci and E. coli) through a meticulous triple process of water filtration and membrane testing.
It found the ‘sanitary quality of swimming water and sands’ on the Costa del Sol to be ‘excellent’, including in Malaga’s recently regenerated San Andres beach.
Researchers paid this beach particular attention and its recent large-scale sand replenishment project after coastal developments led to it being washed away, which was found to have had no negative impact on water quality.
“While sand itself can sometimes harbour faecal matter,” project director Dr. Francisco Franco said, “our tests confirm this is not the case on San Andrés beach.
“Overall, the initial findings indicate excellent water quality across Malaga’s beaches.
“The sanitary quality of the water is paramount,” he said, “and distinct from the visual appeal of the beach. Some beaches might look beautiful, but may still have issues with residual discharges.”
The research team plans to repeat the analysis every two weeks to maintain a consistent monitoring program.
The report comes in stark contrast to findings by the Junta that the waters off the Zahara de los Atunes beach in Barbate, Cadiz province, contain potentially harmful sewage.
