SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL INEQUALITIES IN WATER SUPPLY IN THE WATER AND SEWAGE MICRO-REGIONS OF PARAÍBA

Abstract

Federal Law No. 14.026/2020 establishes the regionalization of sanitation as a condition for Brazilian states to access federal funds. Paraíba instituted Complementary Law No. 168/2021, which creates four Water and Sewage Micro-Regions (MRAEs) and their respective governance structures: Litoral, Borborema, Espinharas and Alto Piranhas. The article addresses the socio-environmental inequalities of water supply in the MRAEs, and aims to identify how unequal access to water and sanitation affects the population of Paraíba, especially during periods of drought and in areas with precarious infrastructure. In addition to a literature review, the methodology included data processing, geoprocessing and analyzing to identify regional disparities. The results indicate that the Litoral MRAE has better supply conditions, while Borborema faces the greatest water deficit and access to sanitation services. The study shows that dependence on water tankers is still a reality for many localities, indicating that emergency policies often replace structural and permanent water supply solutions. The discussion reinforces the need for inclusive public policies that take into account the socio-environmental specificities of each micro-region. Access to drinking water and other basic sanitation services are fundamental human rights and universalization must be a priority for public management, based on principles of environmental justice and social equity. In addition, the development of technical studies and social participation are essential to support effective policies that guarantee the right to water for all, reducing historical inequalities and promoting public health benefits.