Crews from the National Park Service are applying hydrogen peroxide to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to address algae growth that has occurred following recent renovations. The pool has historically experienced algae issues due to the warm and humid climate in Washington, D.C., its shallow depth, and exposure to sunlight. Recently, the pool exhibited a green hue due to algal buildup, contrasting with its previous blue color after renovations were completed.
The Interior Department stated that a combination of nanobubble technology and hydrogen peroxide is being utilized to clean the pool. Nanobubbles react with water to form oxidizing agents that help break down algae, resulting in cleaner water. Hydrogen peroxide is considered a milder treatment than chlorine and is commonly used in spas and natural swimming pools, posing no harmful effects to marine life or the environment.
The Interior Department did not disclose the specific amount of hydrogen peroxide being used in the treatment. The Environmental Protection Agency directed inquiries to the Interior Department.