CWPharma’s guideline for advanced API removal processes provides a condensed overview on relevant aspects to be considered when planning or operating a WWTP with an API elimination treatment stage. However, when used in practice further questions might arise (e.g., how to interpret data from monitoring or pre-trial experiments in detail) that affect the planning process or optimal operation of the existing tertiary treatment stage.

Therefore, WWTP operators (HSY, HFORS and Kohlia WWTP operator via EVEL) of selected study sites will be supported by implementing the recommended steps of the guideline (Guideline module 2) for conduction of a feasibility study on API removal technology. During this process, guideline will undergo a reality check and feedback from the involved parties (e.g. WWTP operators, water authorities or engineering companies) is used to update it accordingly. The selected study sites (Helsinki WWTP, FI; Hillerød WWTP, DK; Kohila WWTP, EE) cover a broad range of boundary conditions (e.g. WWTP size, combination of API and phosphorous reduction) and therefore cover multiple aspects of the guideline. In addition, KWB and AU will support KALFOR utility implementing recommended strategies for bromate minimization (part of guideline module 4) at Kalundborg WWTP as elevated bromate formation by the ozonation process is a major obstacle for the future operation for API removal. The practical application of the bromate minimization strategy (e.g. catchment assessment for bromide sources, bromate reduction by MBBR post-treatment) provides a showcase which can be used also at other WWTPs within the Baltic Sea Region which are facing high bromide levels in their water.

Currently HFORS HSY and Kohila are undergoing checks based on the recommendations.