Analysis of the Potential for Reusing Sanitary Effluents in the Hydrographic Basin of the Ipojuca River

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to present an assessment of the potential for reusing effluents from domestic sewage treatment plants in the Hydrographic Basin of the Ipojuca River.   Theoretical Framework: In regions facing water scarcity, effluent reuse emerges as an alternative to alleviate pressures and reduce contamination of water sources. In this regard, the choice of the Ipojuca River Watershed is justified due to the susceptibility of its constituent municipalities to water scarcity and pollution, as well as the fact that the Ipojuca River has been classified as the third most polluted in the country.   Methodology: The methodology involved basin characterization, data collection from the sanitation services provider to perform quantitative and qualitative evaluation of reclaimed water supply, identification of demands based on consumptive uses (industry and irrigation), existing water use permits, and the provider's customer database. Additionally, georeferenced maps were generated for spatial analysis of the water balance.   Results and Conclusion: Twelve Sewage Treatment Plants were identified, four of which are still under construction, with nominal treatment capacities exceeding the identified irrigation and industrial demands, except for two of them. In terms of quality, for the analyzed parameters, the treatment plants demonstrated satisfactory performance, suggesting that the effluent could be utilized for restricted purposes without the need for further treatment. Lastly, geospatially, the demands are located within a radius of 10km from the analyzed plants, in most cases.   Research Implications: It can be inferred that the basin holds a significant reuse potential to be explored as an alternative for enhancing water availability and reducing effluent discharge into the Ipojuca River.   Originality/Value: The results obtained through this unprecedented analysis in the watershed serve as a reference for policymakers and implementers of water resources management policies, as well as an encouragement for potential producers and consumers of reclaimed water.