ProcessingProcessing copper concentratesCopper concentrate in a smelterSmelter generates wastewater from gas cleaning operationsOperation. This so-called weak acid contains a part of the arsenicArsenic from the copper concentratesCopper concentrate along with sulfateSulfate, halogenides, and heavy metalsMetal. Effective wastewater treatmentWastewater treatment in this context necessitates arsenic fixationArsenic fixation, heavy metalMetal removal, and, depending on concentrations and regulatory requirements, the binding of sulfateSulfate and halogenides. Additionally, selenium contamination must be addressed when present. Aurubis’s wastewater treatmentWastewater treatment process in Hamburg is very robust and meets stringent regulatory requirements. Since the plant requires a technical makeover in the near future, the process is under review. This study provides an overview of various chemical treatment options, aiming to develop an optimal flow sheet for wastewater management at Aurubis’s plant in Hamburg. The assessment includes a comparison of different combinations of treatment methods, considering factors such as effluent salt load, residue volume, residue consistency, and overall costs.