6.3.1
Wastewater Treatment Policy
The University of Thessaly (UTh) recognizes the importance of sustainable water management as a fundamental component of environmental stewardship, public health, and community responsibility.
This policy establishes a comprehensive framework for the collection, treatment, monitoring, and reuse of wastewater generated by the University’s campuses, laboratories, and facilities, in accordance with Greek and European environmental legislation.
Purpose
This policy aims to:
Ensure that all wastewater generated by the University is collected and treated in accordance with environmental and public health standards.
Promote the reuse and recycling of treated water wherever possible, contributing to the reduction of freshwater consumption.
Prevent contamination of natural water bodies, groundwater, and surrounding ecosystems.
Align University operations with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and national sustainability objectives.
Encourage research, innovation, and education in sustainable wastewater management.
Legal and Institutional Framework
This policy complies with:
Law 3199/2003 on water protection and management,
Presidential Decree 51/2007, transposing Directive 2000/60/EC (EU Water Framework Directive),
Joint Ministerial Decision 5673/400/1997 and Directive 91/271/EEC on urban wastewater treatment,
Law 4042/2012 on environmental responsibility, waste management, and water protection, and
The University of Thessaly Environmental and Sustainability Plan.
Scope
This policy applies to:
All campuses, laboratories, student residences, cafeterias, and research facilities of the University.
All forms of wastewater, including domestic, laboratory, and stormwater effluent.
Both on-site and off-site treatment systems, whether managed directly by the University or through municipal partnerships.
Key Provisions
- Wastewater Collection and Treatment
The University ensures that all wastewater is safely collected and directed to approved treatment systems.
On campuses equipped with treatment infrastructure, wastewater must undergo biological or advanced treatment before discharge or reuse.
Campuses connected to municipal wastewater networks must ensure pre-treatment where required (e.g., laboratory waste, food service effluent).
- Monitoring and Compliance
The Technical Services Department monitors water quality indicators (pH, suspended solids, BOD, COD, nutrients, pathogens) to ensure compliance with Greek and EU standards.
Regular inspections and reports are conducted in collaboration with certified environmental laboratories.
Records of wastewater treatment performance are maintained and publicly available through the University’s Environmental Portal.
- Reuse and Water Recycling
Treated wastewater shall be reused for irrigation of green areas, cleaning, or cooling systems where safe and technically feasible.
Reuse projects must comply with Joint Ministerial Decision 145116/2011 on the reuse of treated wastewater.
Pilot initiatives for water reuse and circular economy are encouraged and supported by the University’s Environmental Research Center.
- Hazardous and Laboratory Wastewater
All laboratory and research units must implement pre-treatment systems (e.g., neutralization, filtration) before wastewater enters the general collection network.
The Health and Safety Office oversees compliance and maintains a register of approved laboratory discharge procedures.
- Education, Research, and Community Engagement
The University promotes educational programs, workshops, and research on sustainable wastewater management.
Collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and research networks is encouraged to share knowledge and technology.
Students are involved in monitoring and applied research through coursework, theses, and volunteer projects.
- Transparency and Reporting
An annual environmental report shall include data on wastewater treatment volumes, quality indicators, reuse rates, and compliance.
Reports are submitted to the Governing Council.
Governance and Oversight
The Rector is responsible for overseeing implementation.
The Technical Services Department ensures daily operation and maintenance of systems.
Review
This policy shall be reviewed every three years or following major changes in environmental legislation or infrastructure.
The University of Thessaly reaffirms its commitment to protecting water resources, minimizing pollution, and serving as a model of environmental responsibility.