Overview
Charneca wastewater treatment plant serves 28,000 people in Portugal. Located near the coast, it operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive.
Charneca is a wastewater treatment plant in Portugal, serving a population of approximately 28,000. The facility is situated near the Atlantic coast, reflecting the country's commitment to managing wastewater in coastal areas. As a medium-sized agglomeration, the plant plays a key role in protecting local water quality. Under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), plants serving populations between 10,000 and 100,000 are required to provide secondary treatment as a minimum. For coastal discharges, additional considerations may apply to prevent eutrophication. The plant's designed capacity is 1.00 (likely in thousands of cubic meters per day), indicating it is sized to handle the community's needs. The treated effluent from Charneca ultimately discharges into the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to the health of coastal ecosystems. The plant helps reduce nutrient loads and pollutants that could otherwise impact marine life and recreational waters. Its operation supports Portugal's compliance with EU water quality standards.
Environmental context
Charneca's treated wastewater discharges into the Atlantic Ocean along Portugal's western coast. This coastal region supports diverse marine ecosystems, including fish populations and migratory species. The plant's location within 50 km of the coast means its effluent can influence nearshore water quality, making effective treatment essential to prevent nutrient enrichment and protect bathing waters.
Frequently asked questions
Charneca wastewater treatment plant is located in Portugal, near the Atlantic coast at coordinates 39.447 N, -9.246 W.
The plant serves approximately 28,000 people, classifying it as a medium-sized agglomeration under EU regulations.
The treated effluent from Charneca is discharged into the Atlantic Ocean, as the plant is located within 50 km of the coast.
Charneca operates under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC), which requires secondary treatment for agglomerations of its size, with additional considerations for coastal discharges.
In Portugal, plants serving around 28,000 people typically provide secondary treatment as a minimum, often including biological processes to reduce organic matter and nutrients before coastal discharge.
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