Maria Jokela , 22.02.2010

HELCOM's new project focuses on reduction of phosphorous loads

HELCOM has launched with its partners a new project to promote advanced phosphorous removal from the municipal sewage discharge. The PURE project (Project on Urban Reduction of Eutrophication) is part of the HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan that aims to cut down 42% (15000 tonnes) of phosphorous inputs to the Baltic Sea by 2021.

Joint implementation and joint investments are in the core of the project that demonstrates low-cost and high-impact ways of action in combating eutrophication. The project targets 8 selected municipalities and their wastewater treatment plants and supports them in reaching a phosphorous content of 0,5 mg/litter in outgoing wastewaters. Annually this will mean a reduction of 300-500 tonnes of phosphorous from the Baltic Sea.

Project is co-financed by the European Union and its implementation period is 2010-2013.

More information about the project:

HELCOM’s press release

PURE’s webpage