Analysis of solid waste and sanitation indicators in the riverine municipalities of the São Francisco river in Alagoas and Sergipe, Brazil

Abstract

The São Francisco River Basin plays a crucial role in water supply, energy production, and agriculture across a vast region spanning six states and the Federal District. However, the basin faces significant challenges related to basic sanitation, impacting the health and quality of life of the populations living along the river. This study analyzes indicators of solid waste and sanitation across municipalities along the São Francisco River in the states of Alagoas and Sergipe. A quantitative approach was adopted, using secondary data analysis, focusing on indicators such as IN014, IN015, and IN016 for solid waste, and IN016 and IN046 for sanitation, with data from Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics and the National Sanitation Information System for the  period from 2010 to 2019. The results reveal a disparity in the coverage and efficiency of sanitation services between the states. Alagoas showed a higher index for sewage collection but had gaps in solid waste collection and treatment, while Sergipe faced even more severe challenges, including a total absence of sewage collection in several municipalities and a lack of data on sewage
treatment. The conclusion highlights that deficiencies in basic sanitation services have severe consequences for public health and the environment, indicating an urgent need for  improvements in management and infrastructure. The lack of updated data and insufficient commitment from local managers exacerbate the situation, emphasizing the need for strategic actions to ensure effective and sustainable  sanitation in the São Francisco River region.