Análise bibliométrica dos impactos do reúso de efluentes na qualidade do solo

Abstract

The increasing demand for water resources has created significant pressure on the use of freshwater. Therefore, it becomes crucial to find alternatives to meet all demands without leaving any unattended. In this context, the reuse of effluents emerges as a viable practice to address these water demands. However, it is important to understand how this reused water relates to environmental compartments, with a particular focus on the soil. To explore this issue, a bibliometric review was conducted using the Web of Science database to identify studies addressing this problem. The bibliometric review indicates a growth in publications investigating the correlation between treated effluent reuse, with the soil as the receptor, and potential impacts on this compartment. Countries like the United States and Brazil stand out in this line of research. Regarding the impacts on the soil, several attributes show variations in their quality, with pH, electrical conductivity, salinity, and sodicity being the most discussed. Authors express concern about the long-term variation of these parameters. The studies also highlight that the practice of reuse can increase soil fertility due to the influx of nutrients from these effluents, but it is also a point of alert as high concentrations can harm the soil. Although salinization, sodification, and contamination by heavy metals are possibilities, most studies do not indicate major concerns regarding these parameters. Electrical conductivity and sodium concentration show increases in some studies but not at alarming levels. Therefore, the importance of regulations that parameterize reuse appropriately and monitor the receiving soils is understood. Effluent reuse can be a viable alternative, but it is essential to monitor its effects on the soil and establish adequate regulations to ensure the sustainability of this practice.