BASIC SANITATION AND ECOLOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES IN BRAZIL: CHALLENGES, SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS, AND PERSPECTIVES ON A CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Abstract

Basic sanitation is one of Brazil's main socio-environmental challenges, directly impacting public health, the environment, and sustainable development. Despite legal and institutional advances, such as the New Legal Framework for Sanitation (Law No. 14,026/2020), the country still faces significant inequalities in access to treated water, sewage systems, and proper solid waste management, especially in rural areas and urban peripheries. In this context, there is growing interest in innovative solutions based on ecological technologies aligned with the principles of the circular economy, which encourage resource reuse and the reduction of environmental impacts. The methodology adopted in this article consisted of a systematic literature review, including the analysis of academic articles, technical reports, public policies, and case studies from sources such as SciELO, Capes Periodicals Portal, Google Scholar, and institutional documents. The temporal scope prioritized publications from the last two decades that address both historical challenges and recent innovations and practical experiences from different regions of the country. The main results indicate that technologies such as evapotranspiration tanks, banana circles, constructed wetlands, and biodigester septic tanks have emerged as viable alternatives in areas lacking traditional infrastructure. Practices such as water reuse, sludge utilization, and biogas generation in sewage treatment plants are also highlighted. Case studies show positive impacts on health, the environment, and social inclusion, with greater community engagement and potential for income generation. However, challenges remain related to regulation, financing, cultural acceptance, and technical training. The article concludes that achieving ecologically sustainable universal sanitation in Brazil requires the integration of public policies, technological innovation, regulatory strengthening, and incentives for the circular economy, as well as effective civil society participation to ensure equity and resilience in services.