The Javea desalination plant on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, currently has a production capacity of 28,000 m(3)/d of desalinated water and in the coming years that capacity will rise to 42,000 m(3)/d. From a technical point of view, the design of the plant is conventional, however the method of brine discharge has been specifically adapted for this plant, with the aim of minimising environmental impact. The Javea plant perfectly illustrates how reverse osmosis technology is compatible with the natural environment. This paper explains the technical elements of the plant, analyses the various options that were considered for brine discharge and concludes with what became the final, innovative and environmentally friendly solution.