The environmental impact statement for the Algarve desalination plant has been recently published, being favorable but defining some conditions to be considered. To be located in the area of Albufeira, the approval of this statement is an important step for the implementation of this project, an important component of the Algarve Regional Water Efficiency Plan.

The favorable environmental impact statement came with 100 compensation and minimization measures aimed at mitigating any potential adverse impacts on the environment.
Some of these measures are related to the impacts of brine rejection on marine ecosystems, with the APA stating that there is a set of requirements designed to safeguard against these potential impacts. Measures are in place concerning site preparation, construction execution, and the operational commencement of the plant, as outlined by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). These include the preparation of a geotechnical study to ensure that the project does not compromise the National Ecological Network, nor the beach and cliffs, as well as a comprehensive report on archaeological work and cultural heritage that may be affected by earthmoving or dredging. Among these measures are the restoration of dunes, the control of exotic species, and ensuring the maintenance of an ecological flow in the Quarteira stream.

With a foreseeable capacity of 24 hm3/year and standing for an investment of about 90 million euros, co-funded by the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), this project represents a significant advancement in securing safe and sustainable drinking water for the Algarve region and a step towards preserving its natural water resources.

Source: https://siaia.apambiente.pt/AIA.aspx?ID=3667