A compatibilidade entre o saneamento básico e as obras de proteção costeira: estudo de caso da recomposição do perfil praial de ponta negra, Natal/RN.

Abstract

This research analyzes the compatibility between basic sanitation systems and coastal protection works through a case study of Ponta Negra Beach, located in the city of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The coastal protection interventions were based on dredging and hydraulic fill techniques, designed to control erosion and expand the beach width. A qualitative and descriptive approach was adopted, involving the analysis of restricted-access documents from regulatory agencies, photographic records, technical site visits, and literature review. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between sanitation infrastructure—particularly stormwater drainage and wastewater collection systems—and their compatibility with the performance of the executed beach nourishment project. The findings indicate that the absence or inadequacy of drainage infrastructure compromises the sedimentary stability of the nourished stretch, resulting in flooding, localized erosion, and contamination of the beach. Additionally, the presence of illegal sewage connections in the stormwater network, as well as stormwater infiltrating the sewer system, reflects serious failures in the separate sewer system, exacerbating environmental and public health impacts in the area. It is concluded that the effectiveness and longevity of beach nourishment interventions depend directly on the alignment between urban planning and environmental management, making it essential to strengthen public sanitation policies to ensure the sustainability of coastal protection efforts.