Cetesb reports poor water quality in Baixada Santista coastal areas

Data from the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (Cetesb) indicates that eight of the 11 monitored coastal areas in the Baixada Santista region were classified as regular, poor, or terrible in 2025. The findings, part of the Coastal Water Quality Index (IQAC), highlight significant pollution levels involving fecal matter, organic matter, and nutrients.

Specific areas showed varying trends compared to 2024. The São Vicente and Piaçaguera channels were both classified as terrible, with Piaçaguera showing a decline from poor. The Santos Channel also deteriorated from regular to poor. Conversely, improvements were noted in the Itaguaré River and the Guarujá Outfall area, both of which moved to a good classification. The Laje de Santos area maintained an optimal rating.

Cetesb noted that water quality is influenced by sanitation conditions, rainfall volume, and specific local characteristics. To address these issues, approximately R$ 10.6 billion in investments are planned for the region through 2029, with R$ 8.2 billion specifically earmarked for water supply and sewage systems across nine municipalities.