Filtro para reuso de água: proposta para atender famílias em situação de vulnerabilidade social em Uberlândia-MG

Abstract

Brazil’s water crisis has intensified due to variations in rainfall patterns and poor management of water resources, primarily impacting the most vulnerable populations. In this context, water reuse emerges as a viable alternative to reduce pressure on water sources and increase water availability. This study aimed to develop a prototype sand filter for domestic use and reuse of wastewater and rainwater. The experimental system, initially developed using PET bottle filters and later expanded to a larger-volume reservoir, used iron ore tailings sand and showed positive turbidity reductions in all tests conducted, with rates ranging approximately from 33% to 95%, depending on the type of water and the filter’s operating conditions. These results demonstrate the technical feasibility and the social application potential of the model. The proposal contributes to environmental sustainability by promoting the rational use of water and may provide an accessible solution for vulnerable communities.