COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACTS OF DREDGING IN THE PORTS OF SANTOS (BRAZIL) AND HUELVA (SPAIN)

Abstract

This article presents a comparative analysis of the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of dredging in the ports of Santos, Brazil, and Huelva, Spain. The objective is to understand how sediment management practices influence sustainability and port development in different regulatory contexts. The methodology consisted of a literature review, a survey of legislation and reports, the selection of the two ports as case studies, the systematization of information, and the preparation of a comparative table. The results indicate that, although both ports face similar challenges related to sediment dispersion and effects on coastal ecosystems, significant advances have been made in Europe in terms of adopting environmental standards and good reuse practices. The conclusion emphasizes that dredging, when accompanied by proper management, can mitigate negative impacts, promote socioeconomic benefits, and serve as a reference for more effective public policies in Brazil