The partners of the European project GestEAUr, funded by the Interreg Sudoe programme, held their annual in-person meeting on 16–17 June in Cartaxo, Portugal. The meeting provided an opportunity to review the project’s progress, coordinate upcoming activities, and gain first-hand insight into the water reuse pilot being developed at the Valada Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), operated by Aqualia.
The first day was dedicated to the project’s coordination meeting, during which the partners reviewed the progress of the different work packages, shared the results achieved so far, and discussed the upcoming milestones. These include the development of the SID_AQUARURAL digital tool and the implementation of pilot actions across the different territories of the SUDOE area.
The second day focused on a technical visit to Pilot 2, located at the Valada WWTP, where GestEAUr is evaluating a nature-based solution for the recovery and reuse of treated wastewater.
During the visit, participants learned about the operation of the treatment plant and the initial progress of the technology, which is currently in its pilot phase. As explained by Artur Vidal, Country Manager of Aqualia in Portugal, the company is already working with various stakeholders, including municipal services and emergency response authorities, to explore new applications for reclaimed water.
With this meeting, GestEAUr further strengthens collaboration among its partners and continues to advance the development of innovative, digital, and cost-effective solutions to improve water management in rural areas across the SUDOE region.