Custines Wastewater Treatment Plant - Grand Est, France

The Custines wastewater treatment plant is located in Custines, a commune in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department of the Grand Est region, France. It serves a population of approximately 1,500 residents, classifying it as a small agglomeration under French and EU regulations. The plant provides advanced treatment, which goes beyond the secondary treatment standard required by the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC) for agglomerations of this size. Advanced treatment typically includes nutrient removal (nitrogen and phosphorus) to protect sensitive receiving waters. The plant has a designed capacity of 3,700 units, with an actual discharge volume of 267.60 units. The treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Moselle River, a tributary of the Rhine. The Rhine basin is a major European waterway supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems and providing drinking water for millions. The plant's advanced treatment helps reduce nutrient loading and protect downstream water quality.

The plant discharges into the Moselle River basin, which flows through the Grand Est region before joining the Rhine. The Rhine is a vital ecological corridor for migratory fish such as salmon and eel, and supports diverse aquatic life. Advanced treatment at Custines helps minimize nutrient pollution, safeguarding the river's ecological health and downstream uses including drinking water and recreation.