The Balearic Agency for Water and Environmental Quality (ABAQUA) has presented the 2024 Annual Sanitation and Treatment Report, confirming the consolidation of the wastewater treatment system in the Balearic Islands, with improvements in operational efficiency and stability despite a slight increase in treated volumes.
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Wastewater treatment in the Balearic Islands improves efficiency and maintains system stability in 2024
Throughout 2024, the 80 wastewater treatment plants operated by ABAQUA processed a total of 52.58 hm³, representing an increase of 0.32% compared to 2023. The system maintains an average performance rating of 97%, and all facilities comply with established legal standards, aside from minor incidents already resolved.
The quality of treated water has improved by 3% in the main control parameters, thanks to enhanced biological treatment and disinfection processes.
By island
- Mallorca treated 28.87 hm³, 1.26% more than the previous year. Eight treatment plants exceeded their design capacity for more than seven months, supporting the need for planned expansions. The upgraded Sa Pobla WWTP will be a key improvement for the island.
- Menorca remains stable with 8.81 hm³ treated and no capacity issues, with a notable contribution from the new Addaia treatment plant.
- Ibiza treated 13.84 hm³, 2.12% less, due to the gradual commissioning of the new Sa Coma plant, which has resolved longstanding treatment system deficiencies.
- Formentera treated 0.996 hm³, 4.8% more, due to increased summer tourism, and its plant upgrade will further enhance treatment quality and future capacity.
Key challenges
Upcoming efforts will focus on collaboration with municipalities and the Formentera Island Council to:
- Reduce salinity in a significant volume of incoming wastewater.
- Fully separate stormwater from wastewater during rainfall events.
- Expand and implement urban and environmental water reuse systems.
The objectives set for 2025 are being addressed as a priority, ensuring continuous improvement in treatment quality and promotion of reclaimed water use.