Overview
UWWTP Echten DR serves Hoogeveen, Drenthe, Netherlands, treating wastewater for approximately 146,000 people. The plant operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, which mandates secondary treatment for agglomerations over 10,000 pop
UWWTP Echten DR is a municipal wastewater treatment plant located in Hoogeveen, Drenthe, Netherlands. It serves a population of approximately 146,341, classifying it as a large agglomeration under EU regulations. The plant is situated inland, more than 50 km from the coast, and discharges into local water bodies that eventually drain into the North Sea. As a large agglomeration in the Netherlands, the plant is required to meet stringent treatment standards under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). This directive mandates secondary biological treatment for all agglomerations over 10,000 population equivalent, and tertiary treatment in sensitive areas. The Netherlands designates many water bodies as sensitive to eutrophication, so advanced treatment with nutrient removal is typical for plants of this scale. The plant's treated effluent is discharged into the regional water system, which flows through the Drentsche Aa or other local waterways, eventually reaching the Wadden Sea or the North Sea. These coastal waters are ecologically sensitive, supporting diverse marine life and important bird populations. Proper treatment helps protect water quality and aquatic habitats in the downstream environment.
Environmental context
The plant discharges into the Drentsche Aa river system, which flows through the Drenthe region and eventually drains into the Wadden Sea, a shallow coastal sea of the North Sea. The Wadden Sea is an ecologically sensitive area that supports diverse marine life, including fish, shellfish, and migratory birds. Nutrient removal is critical to prevent eutrophication and maintain water quality in this downstream environment.
Frequently asked questions
UWWTP Echten DR is located in Hoogeveen, Drenthe, Netherlands, at Nijstad, Erflanden, Nijstad, Hoogeveen, Drenthe, 7909 HS.
The plant serves approximately 146,341 people, classifying it as a large agglomeration under EU regulations.
The treated effluent is discharged into the Drentsche Aa river system, which flows through Drenthe and eventually reaches the Wadden Sea and the North Sea.
The plant operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for large agglomerations and tertiary treatment in sensitive areas like the Wadden Sea.
In the Netherlands, plants of this scale typically provide secondary biological treatment with nutrient removal (nitrogen and phosphorus) to meet stringent EU standards and protect sensitive downstream waters.
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