New legislation facilitates private investments in basic sanitation in Brazil

The Basic Sanitation Legal Framework provides for the universalization of water and sewage services by 2033, ensuring that 99% of the Brazilian population has access to potable water and 90% to sewage treatment and collection.

The new legislation, published in 2020 by the Brazilian government, makes it possible to attract more private investments in sanitation services. It encompasses norms that should promote the adequate provision of services, with full service to users, and ensure the simultaneous provision of water supply and sanitary sewage services.

Basic sanitation comprises water supply services; sewage collection and treatment; urban cleaning, garbage collection and disposal; and drainage and management of rainwater. The new regulatory framework also provides for an end to open-air dumps across the country.