Stes Maries de la mer Wastewater Treatment Plant, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France

The Stes Maries de la mer wastewater treatment plant is located in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a coastal commune in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France. The plant serves a population of approximately 16,655 residents, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD). As a French facility, the plant operates under the EU UWWTD (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size discharging into coastal waters. French regulations mandate that such plants meet stringent effluent standards to protect sensitive receiving environments. The plant discharges treated wastewater into the Mediterranean Sea, as Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is located on the Camargue coast. This area is ecologically significant, supporting diverse aquatic life and migratory bird populations. The plant's location within 50 km of the coast underscores the importance of effective treatment to prevent nutrient enrichment and protect marine ecosystems.

The plant discharges into the Mediterranean Sea near the Rhône River delta, a region known for its rich biodiversity and important wetlands. The Camargue area supports numerous bird species and aquatic habitats. Effective wastewater treatment is critical to prevent eutrophication and maintain water quality in this sensitive coastal environment.