Overview
L'Aiguillon La Faute wastewater treatment plant serves L'Aiguillon-la-Presqu'île in Pays de la Loire, France. It treats wastewater for approximately 16,800 people under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive.
L'Aiguillon La Faute is a wastewater treatment plant located in L'Aiguillon-la-Presqu'île, a coastal commune in the Vendée department of Pays de la Loire, France. The plant serves a population of approximately 16,800, placing it in the medium agglomeration category under French and EU regulations. As a French facility, the plant operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size. The directive also mandates more stringent treatment if the discharge enters sensitive areas, which is relevant given the plant's coastal proximity. The plant discharges into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Bay of Biscay (Atlantic Ocean). The surrounding area includes the Marais Poitevin, a large wetland region of ecological importance. The plant's operations help protect the coastal and marine environment from nutrient pollution and pathogens, supporting local biodiversity and water quality.
Environmental context
The plant is located near the Atlantic coast of France, within the Vendée region. Its treated effluent likely flows into the Lay River or nearby coastal waters, eventually reaching the Bay of Biscay. The downstream environment includes the Marais Poitevin, a vast wetland that serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds and aquatic species. The plant's discharge management is essential to prevent eutrophication and maintain the ecological balance of this sensitive coastal zone.
Frequently asked questions
The plant is located in L'Aiguillon-la-Presqu'île, a coastal commune in the Vendée department of Pays de la Loire, France.
The plant serves approximately 16,800 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations.
The plant discharges treated effluent into the local watershed, which flows into the Bay of Biscay via rivers such as the Lay. The coastal location suggests discharge into marine or estuarine waters.
As a French plant, it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which mandates secondary treatment for agglomerations over 2,000 population equivalent and more stringent treatment in sensitive areas.
Under the EU UWWTD, plants serving 10,000-150,000 PE require secondary treatment (biological treatment). In coastal or sensitive areas, tertiary treatment (nutrient removal) may be required to protect marine ecosystems.
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