Zweckverband Gruppenklärwerk Wendlingen am Neckar

The Zweckverband Gruppenklärwerk Wendlingen am Neckar (GKW) is a municipal enterprise that specializes in wastewater treatment and rainwater management. Founded in 1961, the association serves as a central facility for wastewater disposal for over 20 cities and municipalities in the districts of Esslingen and Göppingen, benefiting around 200,000 residents[1][3].

• Wastewater Treatment: The association is responsible for the treatment of wastewater that originates from the local sewage systems of the member municipalities. This is discharged into the Neckar after undergoing comprehensive treatment[1][5].
• Rainwater Management: In addition to wastewater treatment, the GKW also manages rainwater to protect the water quality of the flowing waters[1].
• Operation of Treatment Plants: The association not only operates its own facilities but also manages the operations for 14 additional treatment plants[3].

The main mission of the GKW is to protect the environment through efficient wastewater treatment and to maintain the water quality of the Neckar. The association places great importance on the quality of its services and has established itself as a reliable partner for the surrounding municipalities for over 50 years[3].

A central sustainability goal of the GKW is the implementation of a fourth treatment stage, which allows for the removal of trace substances such as antibiotics and cleaning agents from wastewater. This measure demonstrates the association's commitment to environmental protection and the improvement of water quality[3].

The GKW operates on a cost-covering basis and is financed through wastewater fees collected from the member municipalities. These fees cover operating costs and investments to ensure sustainable and efficient wastewater disposal[1].