This document deals with the overall management of the wastewater sanitation system, and particularly with the problem of wastewater treatment and disposal. It has been developed as a basis for a common Mediterranean approach throughout the Mediterranean region. The purpose of the document is to raise awareness of environmental impacts of urban wastewater and to improve practice and highlight approaches related to treatment and disposal of wastewater to avoid or minimise these impacts by adopting suitable treatment and disposal methods. The Guide is a regional initiative intended to facilitate the implementation of the Strategic Action Program (SAP) at the national level of all MAP countries.