A B S T R A C T A cost-effectiveness integrated methodology applied in a water resources management and sanitation project in Minho and Lima's region (Portugal) is presented. First, environmental objectives and programmes of measures (PM) are established and priorities are identified using a cause-effect assessment matrix and a global effectiveness index. Aiming to achieve more demanding goals, some complementary actions are considered, including "decentralized low-energy wastewater treatment

more »

... ants construction". A geographic information system was used to select potential implementation sites, and suitable treatment processes for each location are identified. The centralized and decentralized wastewater treatment plants combination is promising, achieving a cost-effectiveness attendance of €1510/equivalent-inhabitant in Minho-Lima river basins.