Projeto de conservação de água para o modelo padronizado de UBS1

Abstract

The increasing demand for water resources and the need to promote the rational use of water highlight the importance of adopting sustainable solutions in public buildings. In this context, this study aimed to propose a water conservation project for the standardized Type I Primary Health Care Unit (UBS1) developed by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, based on Brazilian technical standards applicable to water conservation, rainwater harvesting, non–potable water reuse, and building water supply and sanitary systems. The methodology included the hydraulic characterization of the building, the development of a preliminary water balance, the analysis of water consumption indicators, the evaluation of different water conservation strategies, and the design of an integrated system based on the reuse of greywater collected from washbasins and rainwater harvested from the building roof for non–potable purposes. The study also included adaptations to the building water supply, sanitary sewage, and stormwater drainage systems, as well as the preparation of an operation, use, and maintenance manual for the proposed system. The results demonstrated that the proposed solution has the potential to significantly reduce potable water consumption by partially replacing the conventional water supply with alternative sources, thereby improving water–use efficiency, reducing the demand on public water supply systems, and promoting sustainability in public healthcare facilities. It is concluded that the proposed system is technically feasible, complies with current Brazilian technical standards, and can be replicated in other Primary Health Care Units with similar characteristics, representing a viable alternative for sustainable water resource management in public buildings.