A preocupante situação da represa de Itupararanga

Abstract

This article analyzes the critical situation of the Itupararanga Reservoir, an important water supply source for the Sorocaba Metropolitan Region, located within an Environmental Protection Area (EPA). This bibliographic and documentary research aimed to investigate the current conditions of the reservoir in the context of a prolonged drought intensified by climate change and to examine the actions taken by governmental agencies to reduce the risk of water supply collapse. The results indicate a significant reduction in water volume, worsening pollution caused by agricultural, industrial activities and untreated sewage discharge, as well as the inadequacy of governmental measures, which are largely palliative. The study concludes that the regional water crisis exposes the fragility of environmental public policies and highlights the urgent need for structural, integrated, and educational actions, emphasizing the role of environmental education and teacher training in promoting a collective awareness focused on the sustainable use of natural resources.