PINEDA DEL MAR Wastewater Treatment Plant, Sant Pol de Mar, Catalonia

The PINEDA DEL MAR wastewater treatment plant is located in Sant Pol de Mar, within the Maresme region of Catalonia, Spain. It serves a population of 126,629, classifying it as a large agglomeration under the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD). The plant is situated near the Mediterranean coast, within 50 km of the shoreline. As a large agglomeration in a sensitive coastal area, the plant is expected to provide at least secondary treatment under the EU UWWTD, with tertiary treatment likely required to protect the marine environment. The designed capacity is noted as 1. The plant operates under Spain's national water regulations, which implement EU directives. The treated effluent is discharged into the Mediterranean Sea, likely via a marine outfall. The coastal waters of the Maresme region support diverse marine life and are important for tourism and fisheries. The plant's operation is critical for preventing nutrient enrichment and protecting bathing water quality along this popular coastline.

The plant discharges into the Mediterranean Sea, a semi-enclosed sea with limited water exchange, making it sensitive to nutrient pollution. The coastal waters off Sant Pol de Mar support seagrass meadows and diverse fish populations. Proper treatment is essential to prevent eutrophication and maintain water quality for recreational use.