Small Towns in the Metropolitan Region of Vale do Paraíba and Litoral Norte Paulista: Contributions of Nature-Based Solutions and Challenges for the Universalization of Sanitation Services

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.2164232425115

• Palavras-chave: nature-based solutions; sewage services; Vale do Paraíba and North Coast Metropolitan Region; small towns.

• Keywords: nature-based solutions; sewage services; Vale do Paraíba and North Coast Metropolitan Region; small towns.

• Abstract:

  Considering the difficulties of universalizing sewage services in Brazil, especially in small towns where the challenges are even greater, this study aims to present decentralized individual sewage systems as alternatives to help solve the lack of basic sanitation. It focuses on the contributions and advantages of implementing Nature-Based Solutions (BBS) for sanitation in small towns in the Metropolitan Region of Vale do Paraíba and Litoral Norte Paulista (RMVPLN), where the implementation of conventional systems is often unfeasible. Such solutions can meet sanitation needs in a sustainable way, using natural processes and local technological resources, while respecting ecological cycles and promoting environmental, social and economic benefits. We adopted a Critical Analysis approach, based on a bibliographical review of works and research related to the field of study. Studies such as those by Funasa (2015), Tonetti et al. (2018) and Vieira (2020) present BNS as individual and decentralized sewage solutions. This approach makes it possible to verify the patterns, benefits and limitations of these solutions. This work contributes to understanding the relevance of these alternatives in promoting health, mitigating social inequalities and sustainable sanitation.