This is a clear example of how we create not only circular economy solutions, but also social and environmental benefits in the communities where we operate.
With a circular mindset, Sacyr Water has long been committed to giving desalination membranes a second life. By transforming what would traditionally be considered waste into a valuable resource, we extend the lifespan of a key technical component used in desalination plants, prevent premature disposal and promote a more efficient use of resources.
Membranes that have reached the end of their operational life in the seawater desalination process can still provide value. At Sacyr Water, we repurpose them for new applications that maximize their usefulness and contribute to a more sustainable future.
New Applications for a Valuable Resource
Membranes that have completed their service life in seawater desalination can be reused in a variety of ways:
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Reclaimed water treatment for agricultural use, where water quality requirements are less demanding. This initiative is already being implemented at Skikda O&M Desalination Plant and Honaine Desalination Plant in Algeria, Sohar Operation Services in Oman, and Southern Seawater Desalination Plant in Australia.
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Reuse in other company facilities, where membranes continue to serve as filtration elements in different water treatment processes. For example, membranes from the Torrevieja Desalination Plant have been transferred to the Alicante Desalination Plant, where they remain in operation through new treatment applications.
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Wastewater treatment, where membranes are incorporated into tertiary treatment processes or Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) systems, contributing to improved treatment performance and resource recovery.
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Creation of landscaping and recreational features within desalination plants, where retired membranes are transformed into plant containers and decorative elements, as already implemented at Sohar Operation Services in Oman.
Advancing Circular Economy Goals
Through this initiative, Sacyr Water gives desalination membranes a second life, reducing waste generation and preventing landfill disposal. This action forms part of our Zero Waste Plan, helping to advance the company's circular economy objectives.
The initiative aligns with our commitment to preventing the generation of non-hazardous waste and promoting partnerships that prioritize reuse and recovery over disposal. By extending the life cycle of materials and developing innovative alternatives for their reuse, we continue to drive sustainable solutions across all our operations.
At Sacyr Water, we believe that circularity means looking beyond a product's first use and finding new ways to create environmental, operational and social value throughout its life cycle.