Potencial de reúso de efluentes tratados de uma estação de tratamento de esgotos em Maceió - AL

Abstract

The implementation of Resource-Focused Sanitation emerges as an effective solution to preserve the environment and protect public health by preventing the negative impacts of improper disposal of waste, feces, urine, and wastewater. This approach goes beyond effluent treatment, also promoting the reuse of by-products such as sludge, biogas, and treated effluent, playing a crucial role in the responsible management of water resources. Water reuse, through the application of treated wastewater for various purposes, aims to maximize the utilization of reclaimed water, making it safe for specific uses and contributing to the conservation of water resources. The adoption of water reuse practices represents a significant step toward a circular economy. In this context, this study analyzed the potential for the reuse of treated effluents from the Benedito Bentes Wastewater Treatment Plant (ETE) in Maceió-AL. The analysis was conducted through an integrated approach, both quantitative and qualitative, with the objective of assessing the feasibility and benefits of sustainable reuse of these effluents, contributing to the efficient management of the region's water resources. The methodology included a detailed description of the study area, the collection of qualitative and quantitative data on the effluent, and a comparative analysis of these data with existing legislation and standards regarding reuse. The results obtained highlighted a significant potential for non-potable reuse of the treated effluent from ETE Benedito Bentes, with various applications, although some parameters require adjustments to fully meet regulatory standards. The study considered the use of reclaimed water for activities such as agriculture and public area irrigation. Furthermore, the construction sector and industries were identified as potential consumers for future studies, expanding the understanding and opportunities for the implementation of reuse in the region. The integration of qualitative and quantitative data provided a comprehensive view of the effluent quality and its suitability for different purposes, enabling more assertive decisions regarding the use of reclaimed water in the region. Regarding the quantitative information, the current production of reclaimed water at ETE is 25 m³/hour. The total demand of the potential consumers identified in the study adds up to 17,440 m³ per month, which demonstrates that the current production of reclaimed water is sufficient to meet this demand, evidencing the feasibility of using treated effluent for irrigation and maintenance of green areas. On the qualitative side, the annual average Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) for 2023 was 20.45 mg/L, and the average Residual Chlorine was 1.35 mg/L. Other parameters such as Thermotolerant Coliforms, Ammoniacal Nitrogen, and Phosphorus were also analyzed. Finally, there is a highlighted need for specific federal legislation on the reuse of treated effluents. The creation of a comprehensive and well-defined regulatory framework can provide clear and consistent guidelines, aiding in the harmonization of existing standards in different states and municipalities, and ensuring the safety and quality of reclaimed water use throughout the country.