A new process for the removal of phosphate from effluent from sewage treatment plants is described. The process is based on the crystallization of calcium phosphate in a fluidized bed. The major advantage of the process is the fact that no sludge is produced, but a small quantity of waterfree pellets that can be reused in the phosphate industry. The results of five years of research and development are presented. In 1984 the first demonstration plant will be built. Cost calculations for a full-scale plant are also given.