Description

This well-established, large-scale, nature-based solution plant, operational since 2003, focuses on polishing wastewater treatment plant effluent for reuse in irrigation and street cleaning. With an expansion set for completion by 2026-2027, including a flooded forest, a second tertiary wetland, and a bioremediation stream, the system will demonstrate the effectiveness and scalability of reclaimed water use.  

Demonstration activities within the DECIRE-WATER project will test the innovative E. coli sensor, which will be developed by Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) in the project, at the existing treatment wetlands and reclamation plant, under real-world conditions.

Upon successful demonstration, the sensor will be deployed in the demo sites 1, 4 and 5 as well. A concept for agricultural water reuse from the expanded system (second tertiary treatment wetlands and bioremediation stream) will be developed, showcasing the potential for reclaimed water to address future water scarcity risks. This initiative is crucial for Spain and similar regions, where finding sustainable alternatives to address water shortages are imperative. With long-term data available from its operation, Granollers will also test and validate the public-private partnership business models, serving as a lighthouse for large-scale nature-based solution plants and promoting economic sustainability and circularity.

Goal

The goal of the Can Cabanyes demosite is to demonstrate, at large scale, an integrated water-reuse system combining constructed wetlands, a reclamation plant, and a non-potable water network, to supply safe reclaimed water for agriculture and urban uses while validating advanced monitoring, regulatory compliance, and circular water-management strategies. The 10,000 m² constructed wetland in Granollers, near Barcelona, will serve as a benchmark for other regions, especially those facing water scarcity challenges in the future like some regions in Spain.