The reality of basic sanitation in small cities of the Amazonas

Abstract

When examining the inherent difficulties in universalizing basic sanitation services in Brazil, we found that challenges worsen in small towns, especially in the State of Amazonas, where the obstacles appear almost insurmountable. This article aims to compare the conditions of basic sanitation among groups of Amazonian municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants and those with fewer than 50,000, using indicators from the State of Amazonas, the North Region, and national data. The analysis focuses on three components of basic sanitation: water supply, sewage disposal, and solid waste management, as well as indicators of the population residing in favelas and urban communities. To do so, we adopt a critical analysis approach and employ a methodological procedure based on indirect documentary research, utilizing secondary statistical data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics and a bibliographic review. The results highlight the inequalities and precarious conditions faced by both groups of Amazonian municipalities, particularly emphasizing the higher incidence of these inequalities among the populations of small towns, as well as the environmental impacts resulting from deficient basic sanitation services. It was therefore found that there is an urgent need for the development of public policies, strategies, and concrete actions, with an egalitarian, humanistic, and environmentally responsible approach, aimed at improving the quality of life and well-being of these communities, ensuring universal access to basic sanitation services, and mitigating adverse environmental effects.Parte superior do formulário