Cutting-edge research aims to improve water quality in Lake Svartbyträsket

For many years, the municipality has invested heavily in improving local lakes close to urban areas. Earlier measures have produced positive results, including better water clarity and reduced algal blooms. However, they have not resolved the lake’s oxygen deficiency.

Microbubbles to the lake bed

The theory that oxygen can help counteract eutrophication has been known for some time. Until now, however, the technology needed to create oxygen nanobubbles has not been available. In addition, there has been no large-scale source of oxygen, making the method very costly.

The ongoing green industrial transition is creating new opportunities, as oxygen is produced as a by-product of hydrogen production. Researchers therefore want to explore how this resource can be used.

The research project began in autumn 2025 as a collaboration between Luleå University of Technology and the Municipality of Boden, with input from Stegra. Small-scale pilot trials started during the spring. Researcher Lina Hällström explains how the process works:

“From a floating platform, we pump nanosized oxygen bubbles into the deepest part of the lake. The idea is that oxygen and iron in the water will form rust, which then binds nutrients and sinks to the bottom. The initial trials will continue until October, and we hope to be able to present positive results as early as next spring.”

Lina Hällström grew up in Boden and is pleased to have the opportunity to test her research in her hometown.

“The goal is a healthier lake with clearer water and fewer algal blooms. Svartbyträsket could once again provide positive experiences and be used for recreational activities that all residents of Boden can enjoy. It feels very inspiring,” she says.

A scalable solution

If the tests are successful and other necessary conditions are met, the plan is to scale up the oxygenation of Lake Svartbyträsket. The hope is that the method can also be used in other eutrophic lakes and waterways in the Municipality of Boden.

Emilia Björkemyr, Environmental Strategist at the municipality, says:

“We are making major investments in healthy lakes and waterways. This project presents a potential opportunity to make use of resources generated by industry. It is exciting cutting-edge research that residents can follow from the shoreline, right in the centre of Boden.”

This news article was also published in Boden Bild issue 2–2025. Curious about more news from Boden Bild? Explore the full collection.