DP01717802_SERLE_SORSOLO Wastewater Treatment Plant, Serle, Lombardy

DP01717802_SERLE_SORSOLO is an advanced wastewater treatment plant located in the small town of Serle, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The plant serves a population of 165, reflecting its role in a rural or small-scale community within the Valle Sabbia mountain area. It is part of Italy's extensive wastewater infrastructure, which is regulated under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). The plant operates with advanced treatment, which goes beyond the secondary treatment standard required by the EU directive for agglomerations of this size. Advanced treatment typically includes nutrient removal (nitrogen and phosphorus) to protect sensitive water bodies. The plant has a designed capacity of 800 m³/day and currently discharges 32.66 m³/day, indicating it operates well below its capacity. This suggests the plant is sized for future growth or seasonal peaks. The treated effluent is discharged into local watercourses that ultimately drain into the Po River basin, one of Italy's most significant watersheds. The Po River flows eastward into the Adriatic Sea, supporting diverse aquatic life and agricultural activities. The advanced treatment helps protect downstream ecosystems, including the Po Delta, which is an ecologically sensitive area.

The plant discharges into local streams that feed into the Po River basin, which drains into the Adriatic Sea. The Po River is Italy's longest river and supports a rich ecosystem, including fish species such as sturgeon and eel. The advanced treatment at this plant helps reduce nutrient loading, which is critical for preventing eutrophication in the Adriatic Sea, particularly in the Po Delta region.