Last Thursday, 18 June, we took part in a new session of the Sant Joan les Fonts, Begudà and la Canya Business Forum, held at the Begudà Civic Centre. The event included a visit to the wastewater treatment plant and the Begudà wetlands, where we learned about a project that combines technological innovation, responsible water management and biodiversity conservation.
The meeting brought together representatives from Sarval, Torraspapel —Lecta Group—, 3deTècnics, Emili Plantalech, SIGMA, Veolia, Sant Joan les Fonts Town Council and DinàmiG. Noel was represented by Francesc Pou, Environmental Manager; Víctor Llosa, Sustainability Technician; and Gaspar Viladegut, General Services Director. This collaboration between public authorities, companies and organisations is essential to manage the high industrial load received by the plant and ensure demanding environmental standards.
— Green infrastructure serving the local area
The treatment plant has a modular system and biological reactors that allow the treatment process to be adapted to the needs of industrial activity. During periods of drought, treated water can account for up to 90% of the flow of the River Toronell. In addition, sludge management follows circular economy principles, as it is reused in agriculture and environmental restoration projects.
The wetlands act as an additional natural treatment system, improving water quality and supporting habitat recovery. The ecological management promoted through the Biobserva programme has also enabled the creation of shelters for amphibians, birds and bats, including some endangered species. This visit allowed us to see how industrial activity and environmental protection can progress together and generate a positive impact on water, biodiversity and the resilience of the local area.