Steinesto Wastewater Treatment Plant, Bergen, Norway

Steinesto is a wastewater treatment plant located in the Bergen area of Vestland county, Norway. Serving a population of 727, it is a small-scale facility that plays a role in managing municipal wastewater for the local community. The plant is situated in a coastal region, reflecting the typical geography of western Norway. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard biological treatment process required under Norwegian regulations aligned with the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). Although designed capacity is 3000 cubic meters per day, the actual discharge volume is 315.29 cubic meters per day, indicating the plant operates well below its design capacity. This suggests the facility is sized for future growth or seasonal variations. The treated effluent from Steinesto is discharged into the coastal waters near Bergen, ultimately flowing into the North Sea. The discharge location is within 10 km of the coast, making it subject to stringent environmental oversight to protect marine ecosystems. The plant's operation contributes to safeguarding the fjord and coastal environments that are ecologically sensitive and support diverse aquatic life.

The plant discharges into coastal waters near Bergen, which are part of the North Sea basin. These waters support diverse marine life, including fish and seabird populations, and are important for local fisheries and tourism. The proximity to the coast means that treated effluent must meet strict standards to prevent nutrient enrichment and protect the sensitive fjord ecosystem.