Aspect for the implementation of greywater reuse systems in rural communities in the State of Ceará – case study: São José III Project

Abstract

The water scarcity is one of the main characteristics of the semiarid region, combined with the tropical weather, high rates of evapotranspiration and irregularity in the frequency and distribuition of rainfall in the territory, contribute to the reduction of water availability and result in a disturbing picture. The drought that affects the entire Northeast, especially the state of Ceará, strengthens the need to reevaluate paradigms related to the water use. One of them refers to its reuse, which allows to release the water of superior quality for most noble uses, promoting economy, as well as reducing the environmental impact. Thus, the graywater that were previously wasted are used for agricultural purposes, generating water economy and bringing foods with greater nutritional value to the menu of families in the rural area. The Secretary of Agrarian Development, through the São José Project, implemented in the State of Ceará 15 Graywater Reuse Systems for agricultural purposes, aiming at bringing alternatives to water scarcity that damages crops, helping the rural man coexist with drought and strengthening sustainable rural development in the state of Ceará. This study aims to summarize the entire process involving the implementation of these systems, since the sensitization and training in communities and beneficiary families, to their implementation, agroecological management and monitoring.