The removal of the old submarine outfall of the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) of Ibiza, a long awaited project, is already underway. The work, promoted by the Balearic Government, will eliminate a total of 1,375 meters of asbestos cement pipes that were laid on the seabed of Talamanca Bay. Talamanca Bayat depths of up to 40 meters. This material, in disuse due to its environmental impact and potential risks, will be managed under strict controls to avoid any contamination.
A phased dismantling to protect biodiversity
The work, which began a month ago, is being carried out using specialized techniques, dividing the pipes into 6-meter sections that are refloated by means of balloons and moved to authorized storage areas. In addition, more than 800 sacks of cement used as anchors and 225 reinforced concrete ballasts are being removed.
The absolute priority of the project is to protect the Posidonia oceanica meadows, a key ecosystem in marine conservation. To this end, the work is carried out by specialized companies that handle the waste in a differentiated manner and comply with strict protocols to ensure safety and sustainability throughout the process.
Official inspection and progress
This week, authorities such as the Councilor for the Sea and Water Cycle, Juan Manuel Lafuente, and the general director of Water Resources, Joan Calafat, visited the work together with the manager of Abaqua, Emeterio Moles, and the councilor for the Environment of Ibiza, Jordi Grivé. According to them, the work is progressing at a good pace, despite the variable sea conditions. The project, with an execution period of five months, is expected to be completed before the 2025 tourist season, thus consolidating the environmental improvement of Talamanca Bay.
