Straelen Wastewater Treatment Plant, Straelen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany

The Straelen wastewater treatment plant is located in the town of Straelen, in the district of Kleve, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. It serves a population of around 9,900 residents, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations. As a German plant, it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which mandates secondary treatment for agglomerations of this size. The plant's treatment processes are designed to meet the standards required for inland discharge, protecting local water quality. The treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Rhine River basin. The Rhine is a major European waterway supporting diverse aquatic life and providing drinking water for millions. The plant plays a key role in maintaining the ecological health of this important river system.

The Straelen plant discharges into the local water network that flows into the Rhine River, one of Europe's most significant waterways. The Rhine basin supports a wide range of aquatic species and is a critical migratory corridor for fish. Protecting water quality in this region helps preserve biodiversity and ensures safe water for downstream communities.