Condeixa A Nova Wastewater Treatment Plant, Condeixa-a-Nova, Portugal

Condeixa A Nova is a wastewater treatment plant located in Condeixa-a-Velha e Condeixa-a-Nova, Condeixa-a-Nova, Coimbra, Portugal. It serves a population of approximately 5,800 people, classifying it as a small to medium agglomeration under Portuguese and EU regulations. The plant is situated inland, more than 10 km from the coast, and operates within the Mondego River basin. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard required by the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC) for agglomerations of this size discharging into freshwater. It has a designed capacity of 15,000 m³/day and currently treats an average daily flow of 967 m³/day, indicating significant spare capacity. Secondary treatment typically involves biological processes to reduce organic matter and suspended solids. Treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Mondego River and then into the Atlantic Ocean near Figueira da Foz. The Mondego River is the longest river entirely within Portugal and supports diverse aquatic life, including several fish species. The plant's operation helps protect downstream water quality and the ecological health of the river and coastal zone.

The plant discharges into the Mondego River basin, which flows westward to the Atlantic Ocean. The Mondego River is a vital water resource for central Portugal, supporting agriculture, industry, and biodiversity. Downstream ecosystems include estuarine habitats near Figueira da Foz that serve as important nurseries for fish and migratory birds. The plant's secondary treatment reduces organic pollution, helping to maintain water quality in the river and coastal waters.