Law, Sanitation and Sustainability: a Comparative Analysis Between Municipalities in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil and the Province of Ontario, Canada in the Light of Sustainable Development Goals 6 and 11

The relevance of sanitation and sustainability is manifested in the promotion of public health, improvement of quality of life, and ensuring access to basic services as essential human rights. The comparative analysis between the cities of Caçador, Videira, and Concórdia, in Santa Catarina, in Brazil, and Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, North Bay, Chatham-Kent, Woodstock, and Kenora, in Ontário, in Canada, allows for the identification of differences and similarities in sanitation systems, understanding of challenges and opportunities, and consequently, the foundation for effective public policies aimed at improving access to sanitation. The present study aims to analyze the situation of Brazilian municipalities concerning the sustainable development goals (SDGS) 6 and 11, in comparison with Canadian municipalities. The methodology employed in the research encompasses a qualitative and descriptive approach, grounded in literature review, analysis of scientific publications, legal documents, and quantitative data. The comparison focused on access to household sanitation, specifically on the provision of potable water and sewage disposal, due to the availability of information. The work mentions the main challenges faced by both countries in rural and indigenous areas. The study emphasizes the importance for Brazil to invest in infrastructure, implement effective public policies, and promote international cooperation to ensure sustainable development, as well as improving the health and quality of life of its population. Given the current regulatory context, the perpetuation of concessions in the sanitation sector in the country could be an effective strategy to accelerate the expansion and modernization of networks for potable water supply, sewage treatment, urban cleaning, solid waste management, and drainage.