The positive effects of the proposed treatment technologies have been assessed using several key performance indicators, including a specific monitoring study of the benthic ecosystem has provided for the first time direct quantification of environmental benefits. The main objectives of the project have been accomplished following specific sub-tasks:
- Demonstration
Feasibility of applying biofilm-based wastewater treatment systems to reduce the impact of the effluents generated from industrial facilities of fish canneries located in coastal zones. - Monitoring
Technical and environmental performance of two biofilm based processes treating in parallel the same fish cannery effluent. - Assessment
Impacts of the new treatment systems on diversity of invertebrates around the discharge point, and function of benthic assemblages compared both to the initial situation and to pristine areas.
Advantages of each biofilm process in terms of effluent quality and process robustness, considering technical, economic and environmental perspectives. - Identification
Specific features for the application of the two biofilm-based treatment alternatives and comparison with the existing treatment on site - Dissemination
Main outcomes and lessons learned from the project will be transferred to potential end users in other EU areas that will be identified. - Elaboration
Good practice manual with regard to wastewater treatment in the fish canning industry, focused on innovative processes.