Regulation of sanitation services: advances, improvement needs and opportunities in small municipalities in the State of Maranhão

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the current regulatory framework for sanitation applied to public water supply in small municipalities within the Southwest Maranhão Metropolitan Region. The primary objective was to propose a regulatory model for environmental sanitation in these municipalities. The methodological approach involved a systematic literature review, data collection, and analysis of the historical context of sanitation regulation in the state of Maranhão. Additionally, a regulatory exposure model was proposed for the Southwest Maranhão Metropolitan Region. The findings revealed the existence of universalization goals for basic sanitation services in the state of Maranhão, with specific targets for service coverage and quality to ensure equitable and adequate access for the entire population. However, the study also identified challenges related to water quality and solid waste management. These findings provide valuable insights for implementing regulatory exposure as a more efficient and sustainable strategy for sanitation services in this region. Regulatory exposure entails the clear and accessible dissemination of information to the public regarding the sanitation actions undertaken by the concessionaire and their corresponding outcomes.