A outorga de recursos hídricos como ferramenta de gestão: Estudo de caso em Barcarena/PA

Abstract

In Barcarena/PA, industrial expansion has caused significant environmental impacts, such as the pollution of water bodies by industrial and domestic effluents, directly affecting water quality and generating conflicts over its use. In this context, the water resources usage permit (outorga) is an essential tool for regulating access to and the use of water, ensuring a balance between demand and availability. The research used documentary analysis, data from SEMAS, ANA, and the QualiÁgua Program, as well as monitoring of the allowable flow, assessing its adequacy to the region’s water availability. This study aims to understand how the outorga has been applied in the municipality between 2008 and 2024 and to evaluate its effectiveness in controlling water extraction and effluent discharge. The results indicate significant growth in the issuance of outorgas, demonstrating the intensification of water resource use in the municipality. However, failures were identified in the renewal and monitoring processes, which may compromise efficient water management. From the evaluation of water quality data, it was observed that the parameters of pH and dissolved oxygen are below the levels recommended by CONAMA Resolution No. 357/2005, indicating the impact of industrial activities in the region. Furthermore, the lack of specific classification undermines the effectiveness of the outorga, making it difficult to implement measures for pollution control and the proper use of water. Therefore, the outorga plays a crucial role in water management but needs to be improved and integrated with more effective monitoring mechanisms, such as classification and water usage charges, ensuring sustainable use of water resources and minimizing conflicts over access to water.