Friborg Wastewater Treatment Exceeds All Expectations

Ecublens Plant Achieves 90% Micropollutant Removal

The Ecublens wastewater treatment plant in Friborg is setting a new standard for environmental protection, significantly surpassing legal requirements for micropollutant removal. After just one year of operation, the facility is eliminating 90% of these harmful substances.

Breakthrough in Water Quality

The Verna treatment plant’s advanced system, operational since July 2023, has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance. Monthly analyses throughout 2024 confirmed an average micropollutant elimination rate of 90%, a substantial leap beyond the 80% mandated by federal law.

Environmental officials meticulously tested water samples from both the inflow and outflow of the plant. These examinations focused on twelve key substances, including common pharmaceuticals and household anti-corrosion agents, serving as reliable indicators for overall micropollutant reduction.

Canton-Wide Environmental Strategy

Friborg canton is proactively implementing its ambitious water protection plan, which requires eleven wastewater treatment plants to meet stringent micropollutant treatment criteria. Eight of these facilities will be upgraded with dedicated treatment systems.

Additionally, the plants in Kerzers and Romont are scheduled to connect to already equipped installations. This strategic approach, supported by federal subsidies for system installation or wastewater transport, aims to drastically cut toxic substances in the region’s rivers, safeguarding vital aquatic ecosystems.

As of early 2025, six treatment stations have already initiated the process to secure federal funding, underscoring the canton’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The success of the Ecublens plant serves as a powerful model for these ongoing efforts.

Globally, cities are grappling with the challenge of micropollutants. For example, a 2023 report by the European Environment Agency highlighted that over 75% of tested European river water bodies contained multiple pharmaceutical residues, emphasizing the critical need for advanced treatment technologies like those implemented in Friborg (Source: European Environment Agency, 2023).