Overview
Torgau wastewater treatment plant serves approximately 41,300 people in Torgau, Saxony, Germany. It operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, which mandates secondary treatment for agglomerations of this scale.
The Torgau wastewater treatment plant is located in the city of Torgau, in the state of Saxony, Germany. It serves a population of approximately 41,300, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations. The plant is situated near the Elbe River, which is the primary receiving water body for treated effluent. As a German facility, the plant operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations with a population equivalent (PE) between 10,000 and 150,000. For larger agglomerations or discharges to sensitive areas, tertiary treatment may be required. It is expected to meet the directive's standards for its size. The treated wastewater from the plant is discharged into the Elbe River, which flows through Germany and eventually into the North Sea. The Elbe is a major European waterway and supports diverse aquatic life, including fish species such as salmon and eel. The plant's operations help protect the river's water quality and downstream ecosystems.
Environmental context
The Torgau wastewater treatment plant discharges into the Elbe River, which flows northward through Germany and empties into the North Sea near Cuxhaven. The Elbe basin supports a variety of habitats and is an important migratory corridor for fish. The plant's effluent contributes to the nutrient load in the river, and its treatment level helps mitigate eutrophication risks in the downstream estuary and coastal waters.
Frequently asked questions
The Torgau wastewater treatment plant is located in Torgau, Saxony, Germany, near the Elbe River.
The plant serves approximately 41,300 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations.
Treated wastewater from the plant is discharged into the Elbe River, which flows through Germany and into the North Sea.
The plant operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of its size.
Under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, plants serving between 10,000 and 150,000 population equivalent typically require secondary treatment, with tertiary treatment if discharging to sensitive areas.
Nearby plants