Lake-water chemistry in Galloway, southwest Scotland is characterized by strong correlations between low calcium and high aluminium concentrations and low pH. Nitrate and silicate levels were sufficient for diatom growth but phosphate was limiting. N:P and Si:P ratios indicated severe phosphate limitation according to the Redfield ratio. Chlorophyll- a specific epilithic phosphatase activity expressed as a ratio of acid to alkaline phosphatase activity showed a clear relation to pH with acid phosphatase predominating at pH 5.5 and below. Acid phosphatase activity in epilithon from low pH lakes was inducible as phosphate levels decreased, and inhibited by the addition of phosphate. Inducible acid phosphatase activity clearly confers a selective advantage to epilithic diatom communities growing in oligotrophic lakes of low pH.

Achieving sustainable development requires partnership between all sections of society, including SMEs. Local government organisations have a responsibility to promote sustainability; however, despite enthusiastic activity in the UK, it has proved difficult to involve the SME sector. Raising awareness through education and training is one of the first steps to improved environmental performance and Local Authorities are well placed to help provide appropriate programmes. The ENVIRONMATICS Project at Business Link Hertfordshire, backed by Hertfordshire County Council and the University of Hertfordshire, has attracted funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) ADAPT programme. An environmental management training programme aimed specifically at the SME sector has been established, and is integrated into other business training. The training course has been running since April 1996 and has a full compliment of participants. There is now a waiting list for the next intake. The success of the Project has been due largely to the partnership approach, embracing expert organisations, and thereby increasing the relevance and credibility of the training programme. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.

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