The Garbage and Water in the Microregion of the Açu Valley/RN

Abstract

In this article we seek to show the process of final disposal of solid waste (garbage) in the microregion of Vale do Açu / RN and how this inadequate practice is capable of compromising the reservoirs and water sources around the dumps, since the Açu valley is holder of the largest water reserves among the 147 municipalities that make up the Piancó-Piranhas-Açu River Basin Committee (CBH-PPA). The determinations of the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS) and the actions of the Intermunicipal Consortium for Basic Sanitation in Vale do Açu have not been sufficient to advance the environmentally appropriate treatment of waste. The lack of integration between the policies of the Brazilian State, which deal with the respective themes, garbage and water are still mixed, threatening to pollute and contaminate the waters and soils of the micro-region. The final disposal of waste in this geographic space takes place in open-air dumps, close to reservoirs and water sources. The work consisted of bibliographic review, documentary and field research, with visits to the municipalities of Vale do Açu, looking for primary and secondary data. We conclude that in order to solve the problem of waste treatment effectively, to the point of not compromising water contamination, it is essential to set up a public consortium, build a sanitary landfill, provide technical and financial support to municipalities and waste pickers of materials.