OPEN GATES, CONTAMINATED BEACHES? THE IMPACT OF WATER MANAGEMENT IN SANTOS’ CANALS ON BATHING WATER QUALITY

Abstract

The drainage canals of Santos, designed by Saturnino de Brito, are now significant sources of diffuse pollution. A 2023 study revealed a strong correlation between heavy rainfall, gate operations, and decrease in bathing water quality. Based on rainfall, microbiological, and oceanographic data, critical peaks of Enterococcus contamination were observed in January, February, and July. The Boqueirão and José Menino beaches were most impacted due to their proximity to stormwater discharges and local hydrodynamics. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated monitoring, sanitation, and coastal management to protect public health and the marine environment from the risks posed by canal pollution