OLIVEIRA, D. S.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/8452204622222108; OLIVEIRA, Diego Souza de.
Abstract:
Access to water, a basic need and a human right, is marked by deep inequalities
that result in water injustice. These inequalities stem not only from natural factors
but also from inadequate resource management, deficient infrastructure, and
socioeconomic conditions. Water injustice occurs when users face limited access
to water, exacerbating existing inequalities and restricting their ability to adapt.
This study aims to assess water injustice through the approach of urban water
metabolism at the household scale. The research was conducted on this scale,
allowing for a detailed analysis of the dynamics of access, storage and use of
water. Methodologically, the urban water metabolism approach, combined with
social metabolism, was employed to understand the water metabolic structure
within households, characterize vulnerability, and identify the causes and impacts
of inequality in water access. The research used secondary and primary data
collection, where the primary data were obtained through the application of
questionnaires in 154 households in 58 cities located in the northeast region of
Brazil. By constructing the household metabolic structure, it was possible to
identify different levels of vulnerability related to water quality and quantity.
However, no single pattern was observed in the metabolic structure of the studied
cases. The water intake process and the intermittency of the supply system were
determining factors in how water is metabolized. Users are exposed to risks
concerning both water quality and quantity, and these risks occur at different
stages of the metabolism. Some changes in the metabolic structure, such as
monitoring and controlling water intake sources and using fixed storage
reservoirs with proper maintenance, make metabolic pathways safer.
