RICHWATER: Reclaimed water for agricultural purposes

RichWater® is based on an innovative technology that combines the treatment of wastewater through a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR), a mixing module to obtain the optimal combination of clean and reclaimed water, and a control and monitoring unit through soil and water sensors.

This combination provides a reliable source of pathogen-free water and responds in real-time to the demand for irrigation and fertilization of each type of soil.

The implementation of this system in the agricultural production process implies a more sustainable use of water resources, savings on fertilizer and freshwater costs, and allows fruit and vegetable producers to adjust the fertigation by blending fresh and treated water to meet their specific needs. 

RichWater® offers an innovative solution that can supply a constant source of nutrient-rich water for use in agriculture and can complement other conventional sources such as well water and aquifers. This solution integrates both wastewater treatment and the irrigation module into a single system that offers the possibility of automating and controlling the volume of additional water and its quality through the use of sensors. The MBR has been designed in a way that the nutrients contained (mainly nitrogen and phosphorus) remain after treatment, while pathogens are eliminated.

It is a system of easy operation and maintenance that provides a high-quality effluent in compliance with the Spanish Royal Decree 1620/2017 and EU Regulation 2020/741 of the European Parliament and of the Council for irrigation in agriculture. 

The implementation of RichWater® acts as a driver in the modernization of the agricultural sector, advancing towards more resilient and efficient irrigation.

The treatment provided by RichWater® allows the recovery of nutrients, reducing the risk of environmental problems (e.g., eutrophication) due to diffuse pollution in the water. These nutrients can be directly assimilated by plants, resulting in savings in chemical fertilizers and economic benefits for farmers and irrigation communities.

This means a lower carbon footprint since CO2 emissions are avoided by the production, packaging, and transportation of fertilizers.