Problem:
As I have now learned, Red Tide is becoming an increasing problem throughout the United States. Rising nutrient levels from pollution have allowed this algae to spread rapidly and bloom in large numbers. These large blooms cause many individuals respiratory problems that do not allow them to be exposed to it. Also, children and the elderly are the most susceptible to these problems associated with Red Tide. However, these are not the only problems that Red Tide can cause. They can decreased the amount of tourism to communities centered around the beaches and coastal areas due to dead marine life and the respiratory problems. This will result in harsh economic penalties if these blooms continue to occur.
How do we solve it?
After thinking through this opportunity, I don't believe that the best solution is to target the symptoms of Red Tide. There are already a multitude of companies that are specialized in respiratory therapy and devices. This high barrier to entry made me think of another idea. Instead of targeting the problems associated with Red Tide, I believe that the best idea is to tackle it head on. Currently, there are projects studying these algae blooms, but there is no published research on a preventative measure to limit its ability to reproduce. I believe that a company centered around preventing and controlling these blooms is a feasible idea. Developing an effective treatment or prevention method would save coastal areas millions of dollars in lost revenue from tourism and beach activity. Not to mention, the public would have a vested interest in the city investing in this. There is no specific protocol in place currently to control these blooms, but a regiment could be developed by studying the algae and how it reacts to different treatments. As a microbiology major, UF undergraduate labs have the technology to study organisms like K. brevis. If I can develop a way to limit its ability to rapidly reproduce without harming beneficial organisms like phytoplankton, then I could sell this service to towns that depend on water-based activities.
Your business idea is very specific which makes me believe that it could work. You have an advantage on most people developing business in this class which is you are fully specialised in a field that most people are not familiar with ( or do not know at all). Just out of curiosity, have you ever checked how much this industry worths? Just to make sure that you aren't devoting time and effort for a business that cannot support you financially. Best of luck with this project !
ReplyDeleteZane, I can tell that you really put a lot of thought into this issue, especially since it is so unique and specific to the times. I think that a research company dedicating to controlling these blooms is a great idea because there is probably not a lot of competition in the market for it yet but there is a great demand. This issue has become increasingly more relevant and could affect areas that rely on clean waters whether that be for necessities or wants like areas to swim with kids on vacation. I'm excited to learn more about this over time.
ReplyDeleteWhile specific in some cases, I don't feel like I understand how these blooms are formed after reading. Do they happen in specific areas consistently? Do they happen only where agriculture is? Is it in all bodies of water? I'm wondering these because they specifically relate to how you resolve this. A company that goes up and down the East coast cleaning up algae is very different from one that has to explore every river and lake and tributary.
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