Not many wastewater treatment plants end up winning environmental awards.
The one in Punta del Hidalgo just did.
The Punta del Hidalgo wastewater treatment plant (EDAR) in La Laguna has been recognised by BiObserva, a biodiversity programme promoted by Veolia, as one of Spain’s facilities most committed to protecting and integrating local biodiversity.
Not exactly glamorous work… but important all the same.
Recognition for Environmental Work
The award highlights efforts made by Teidagua, which manages the facility, to make the site more environmentally friendly and better integrated with the surrounding landscape.
Measures introduced over recent years include:
• Biodiversity monitoring programmes
• Ecological maintenance of green spaces
• Removal of pesticide use
• Control of invasive species
• Environmental action plans in sensitive areas
The aim has been simple enough really… improve water infrastructure without ignoring nature around it.
La Laguna Highlighted for Sustainable Water Management
La Laguna Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez said the recognition places the municipality among national references for sustainable water management and biodiversity protection.
Meanwhile councillor Ángel Chinea described the plant as an example of how infrastructure and environmental policies can work together rather than against each other.
A sentence you do not hear often when talking about sewage plants.
Ten Years of BiObserva
The recognition comes as BiObserva celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2026.
The programme promotes biodiversity monitoring through volunteering initiatives in treatment plants and industrial facilities across Spain.
The award was collected by Silvia Pérez, head of the Punta del Hidalgo plant, alongside representatives from Teidagua, Canaragua, Veolia, and the Ministry for Ecological Transition.
Not bad for a place most people drive past without giving it a second thought.