Identification and Quantification of Nitrogen Flow in the Sanitation System of the Identity Territory of Southernmost Bahia

Abstract

Sewage is a rich source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and its efficient management can reduce pollution, promote sustainable water use, and enable its use as fertilizer. Material Flow Analysis (MFA) has been effective in managing these nutrients within the sanitation system. This study conducted a Nitrogen Flow Analysis (NFA) in the Identity Territory of the Southernmost Region of Bahia (TI07) for 2022, revealing that 46.31% of the sewage is discharged directly into the hydrosphere, possibly contaminating water bodies. Therefore, technologies such as vermifilters and green septic systems are recommended for treating sewage and recycling nitrogen for use as fertilizer or in food production. The NFA also showed that waste management accumulated 23.49% of the system's total nitrogen, highlighting the potential for composting, fertilizer supply, and strengthening local family farming.