A wastewater treatment plant in Bulgaria is leading the way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the water industry. The Kubratovo plant, operated by Sofiyska Voda, is one of the most energy-efficient in Europe, generating electricity and heat energy from biogas produced during the treatment process. This has allowed the plant to cover more than 100% of its energy needs and save approximately 70,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.
The plant has already received Gold Standard certification for its emissions reduction efforts, but plans are in place to further increase biogas production and install photovoltaics to boost energy self-sufficiency. The success of the Kubratovo plant has inspired discussions with other facilities in the Veolia group to push for similar energy-saving initiatives.
Experts believe that the water industry has the potential to reach net zero emissions by efficiently using water resources and capturing and reusing greenhouse gases produced during the treatment process. By adopting renewable energy sources, wastewater treatment facilities can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
Euronews and the European Commission are partnering to promote sustainable water management through the EU’s Water Wise campaign. Through their series Water Matters, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of protecting Europe’s water systems and ecosystems. By becoming #WaterWiseEU, individuals and communities can contribute to a more sustainable future for water resources.
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