Drinking water, wastewater and sanitation in Brazil and in The Netherlands within the Dutch Visitation Program - DVP: Dutch Visitors Programme

ABSTRACT:

This paper was written based on the participation of the Dutch Visitors Program promoted by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, which enabled the knowledge related to the environmental sanitation services structure in the Netherlands and, later, made possible the development of a limited comparative analysis of these services provided in Brazil. In this context, a great disparity was noticed in relation to the whole sanitation services management between the two countries, as expected. Although both present slight differences in drinkability water patterns and effluent discharge guidelines, big differences were noticed not only in relation to geographical and environmental features such as territorial extension and availability of resources, but also, mainly, in relation to the management and engagement of the parties, i.e., government, service providers and population served. While Brazil focuses on raising its service levels without worrying about the quality and the impact on the environment, the Netherlands, with high levels of quality and service (almost 100%), is concerned with seeking partnerships, new and more sustainable technologies, and more effective participation of the society on issues related to environmental sanitation.

Keywords:
sanitation; sewage system; drinking water system; Brazil/Holland