Quercus opposes Torres Novas biometane plant project

The Portuguese environmental NGO Quercus has requested an adverse Environmental Impact Declaration for the biometane production unit planned by Gás da Terra in the parish of Árgea, Torres Novas. The group warns that the project, which would treat about 100,000 tonnes of organic waste and livestock effluent annually, poses risks to water resources, public health and local land use. Quercus quoted the association’s statement: “Este projeto constitui uma ameaça direta para a saúde pública e para a qualidade de vida da população [de Torres Novas] e do concelho vizinho, o Entroncamento”.

The NGO criticises the current Impact Study for methodological flaws, highlighting that prevailing north‑west winds could carry hazardous gases such as hydrogen sulfide and ammonia into nearby urban areas. It also flags heavy‑vehicle traffic on inadequate roads, potential contamination of the Ribeira de Árgea watercourse, and incompatibility with the municipal land‑use plan. Quercus urges the Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente to issue a negative declaration, relocate the facility to an established industrial zone, and strengthen public participation mechanisms. The public consultation on the project runs until 3 July, with local civic groups and the mayor of Torres Novas also expressing opposition.