Armenia plans new industrial wastewater rules from 2030

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian government plans to introduce new requirements from 2030 for discharging industrial wastewater into centralized sewerage systems. The Water Committee of Armenia’s Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure has submitted the relevant draft decision for public discussion.

The draft establishes permissible discharge limits for industrial wastewater, requirements for preliminary treatment and decontamination, as well as conditions for its acceptance into centralized sewerage systems, Armenpress reports.

In particular, industrial wastewater discharged into sewerage systems must not disrupt the normal operation of networks and treatment facilities, damage pipes, contain substances capable of forming explosive mixtures, or interfere with the biological treatment of wastewater.

The wastewater temperature must not exceed 40 degrees Celsius, while the concentration of suspended and floating particles must not exceed 500 milligrams per liter. Industrial wastewater that does not meet the established standards must be treated at the expense of the respective enterprise before being discharged into the centralized system.

Wastewater containing radioactive, toxic, or bacterial pollutants will be subject to preliminary decontamination and disinfection requirements. Acidic or alkaline wastewater must be neutralized or equalized to prevent corrosion of sewer collectors and possible disruption of biological treatment processes.

The draft also proposes treating purified wastewater as an alternative water source and, where possible, using it for industrial or other purposes.

The regulation was developed to align Armenian legislation with European requirements for urban wastewater treatment stipulated under the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement.

According to the draft’s justification, its adoption is expected to contribute to the proper treatment of domestic and industrial wastewater, more efficient management of water resources and environmental protection.

If the decision is adopted, no changes to state budget revenues or expenditures are anticipated, and no additional financial resources will be required.

The decision is expected to enter into force in 2030.

Public discussion of the draft will continue until August 5, 2026.