A new debate has emerged over the use of treated water from Ibiza Airport’s wastewater treatment plant to irrigate areas around the airport, after images showed a tanker spraying water on land within the airport perimeter.

The issue comes amid wider controversy surrounding the airport’s wastewater management, with environmental and community groups previously raising concerns about alleged discharges affecting the surrounding area.

Aena Says the Water Is Suitable for Irrigation

According to Aena, the water shown in the images is treated and regenerated water, not untreated wastewater.

The airport operator says the water is collected in tankers from its own treatment facility and used to irrigate areas of the airport, within the uses authorised for the facility. Aena also says wastewater requiring additional treatment is sent to the Can Bossa treatment plant.

The use of treated wastewater for irrigation is not in itself unusual. Aena has previously stated that regenerated water from the airport's treatment plant is used for irrigation of its gardens and green areas.

Environmental Groups Raise Concerns

The latest images have nevertheless prompted criticism from those questioning whether the water being sprayed meets the required standards for irrigation.

The people who brought the issue to Noudiari's attention claim the water has an insufficient level of treatment and argue that its continued use could pose environmental concerns, particularly because the airport is close to the Ses Salines Natural Park.

Aena rejects that characterisation and insists that the water being used for irrigation has already undergone treatment.

Part of a Wider Wastewater Debate

The dispute comes after environmental and social organisations raised concerns earlier this summer about wastewater from the airport treatment plant.

Independent sampling reported in August found levels of E. coli and suspended solids above regulatory limits in several samples, prompting calls for greater transparency and for authorities to examine the situation.

Aena has previously acknowledged that, during periods of exceptionally high consumption or when overflow systems become saturated, treated water can occasionally escape from the system. The company has also said that other installations along the Torrent de sa Font could contribute to occasional discharges.

Why It Matters

The discussion is particularly relevant because the airport is located close to Ses Salines, one of Ibiza's most important protected natural areas.

For now, the latest report presents two differing positions: those raising concerns about the quality of the water being sprayed, and Aena's assurance that the water is treated, authorised for irrigation and managed as part of its water-reuse system.

The debate is therefore likely to continue as authorities and environmental groups examine the quality and management of the airport's treated wastewater.

Source: Noudiari