The populations of Castro Verde and Aljustrel are protesting against the discharge of sludge used as agricultural fertilizer in their regions. Residents and owners of rural tourism units have filed complaints about the strong bad smells and the presence of flies that affect the local quality of life.
Tourism sector professionals are among the most affected by this situation, with several tourists choosing to cancel their stays due to the unpleasant conditions caused by the sludge. This reality is having a negative impact on the economic activity of these areas.
The sludge in question comes from wastewater treatment plants that are subsequently used as fertilizer in agriculture. This is a common method of waste reuse, although it is generating conflicts with local communities in these two Alentejo towns.
