Empowering Educators on Sustainable Wastewater Management: Focus on Reuse and Marine Decontamination

On April 5th, more than 50 teachers from Primary and Secondary Education Schools across West Attica took part in a dynamic and informative workshop entitled "Sustainable Management of Urban Wastewater: The Importance of Reuse and Practices that Contribute to the Decontamination of the Marine Environment."

Organized by the Primary and Secondary Educational Directorates of West Attica, in collaboration with EYDAP and HCMR, the workshop aimed to educate, raise awareness, and empower the educational community on critical environmental issues. Participants explored the value of urban wastewater reuse for non-potable purposes, the processes involved in wastewater treatment, and innovative technologies currently being implemented to remove chemical pollutants.

A key highlight of the workshop was the presentation of the RHE-MEDiation project, which applies pioneering microalgae-based treatment technologies at the Thriassio Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) to reduce the presence of hazardous pollutants in treated urban wastewater. This initiative represents a significant step toward improving the health of the marine environment by mitigating pollution at its source.

The workshop unfolded in two parts. The first session featured expert presentations by EYDAP and HCMR representatives, who provided detailed insights into wastewater reuse practices, the treatment process, and the innovative objectives of the RHE-MEDiation project.

In the second part, participants visited the Thriassio WWTP for a guided tour and a firsthand look at the pilot unit developed under the RHE-MEDiation project. Teachers had the opportunity to observe the advanced treatment technology in action, ask questions, and engage directly with the researchers and operators involved.

This hands-on learning experience not only deepened educators' understanding of sustainable water management, but also inspired them to bring these essential environmental concepts into their classrooms. By transferring knowledge to students, these teachers play a pivotal role in fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens, equipped to protect and preserve our planet’s marine ecosystems.