Blackwater discharge in Maceió: a circular economy perspective

Abstract

“Blackwater discharge” are stretches of contaminated water that flow into the sea through stormwater drainage networks. The improper use of these pipes as sewage channels and for dumping various types of waste results in significant environmental and socioeconomic impacts on coastal ecosystems. This research identified 21 dirty tongues located along the coast of Maceió-AL, highlighting the need to seek sustainable alternatives to address this problem. The objective of this study is to identify possible solutions based on circular economy, which contribute to mitigate blackwater discharge in Maceió, through a systematic review of literature and application of objective questionnaires to the local community. The results demonstrate that the current stormwater drainage and urban sanitation systems are not satisfactory and the population is not aware of the viable alternatives to sewage in the circular economy, which allows for increased public spending and a decrease in the local quality of life. Thus, it is concluded that the territory of Maceió still requires more in-depth studies to evaluate the most effective and sustainable methods of reusing dirty languages. In view of this, it is recommended to implement integrated public policies, with an emphasis on environmental research, efficient monitoring, restructuring of the drainage infrastructure and expanding access to basic sanitation, aiming at the environmental recovery of the local coastline, economic gain and the well-being of the population.