When cooperation crosses borders: the Eisch-Amont wastewater treatment plant
Every day, thousands of cross-border workers cross the border between Luxembourg and Belgium to get to work. But cooperation between the two countries goes far beyond mobility: it also plays a vital role in protecting the environment and our water resources.
Did you know that wastewater from several villages in Luxembourg is treated in Belgium? The Eisch-Amont wastewater treatment plant, situated in Belgium close to Steinfort, is an excellent example of cross-border cooperation.
Commissioned in 2021, it is the result of a partnership between SIDERO, IDELUX Eau and SPGE (Société publique de Gestion de l’Eau). This project received significant support from the European Interreg Greater Region programme, which co-financed its implementation to the tune of over €6.5 million, out of a total investment of €17.6 million.
A wastewater treatment plant serving a cross-border catchment area
Designed to treat wastewater from 15,600 PE (population equivalent), the treatment plant serves the Luxembourgish villages of Hagen, Kahler, Kleinbettingen, Steinfort, Grass, Fingig and Clemency. On the Belgian side, the villages of Sterpenich and Rosenberg are already connected, whilst the connection for Sélange is currently under construction. The connection plans also provide for the integration of the villages of Barnich and Autelbas. The sewer system and stormwater tank for Barnich and Autelbas have recently been approved by the Belgian and Luxembourg authorities.
Wastewater is channelled to the treatment plant via a network of cross-border sewers, before being treated using an activated sludge process and then discharged into the Eisch in accordance with environmental requirements.
Cooperation for the benefit of the environment
The treatment plant helps to improve the water quality of the Eisch – and, further downstream, that of the Moselle – in a sustainable manner. By centralising wastewater treatment within a modern, high-performance facility, the Belgian and Luxembourg partners are optimising technical resources whilst enhancing the protection of aquatic environments.
This project perfectly illustrates the fact that rivers do not recognise administrative boundaries. Their protection depends on a shared vision of the region and close cooperation between the various stakeholders.
The Eisch-Amont wastewater treatment plant is therefore a concrete example of cross-border cooperation in the interests of sustainable water management and the protection of our environment.
