ARITZO Wastewater Treatment Plant, Aritzu, Sardinia | Advanced Treatment Facility

ARITZO is a wastewater treatment plant located in the town of Aritzu (Aritzo) in the province of Nuoro, Sardinia, Italy. The plant serves a population of approximately 2,504 people and operates with a designed capacity of 3,250 cubic meters per day, treating an average daily flow of 495.70 cubic meters. As an inland facility, it is situated more than 50 kilometers from the coast, reflecting its role in the mountainous interior of Sardinia. The plant employs advanced treatment processes, which go beyond the secondary treatment 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's capacity utilization is well below its design capacity, indicating room for future growth or seasonal variations in flow. Treated effluent from ARITZO is discharged into local watercourses that eventually drain into the Tyrrhenian Sea via the Flumendosa River basin. The surrounding region is characterized by mountainous terrain and Mediterranean climate, with water resources supporting agriculture and natural habitats. The advanced treatment level helps safeguard downstream ecosystems and water quality in this ecologically sensitive area.

ARITZO discharges into local streams that feed into the Flumendosa River, which flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea. The Flumendosa basin supports diverse aquatic life and is important for regional water supply. The advanced treatment ensures minimal nutrient loading, protecting downstream water quality and the coastal marine environment.