SDG 6 indicators: importance and methodological differences in first measurements

Authors

  • Julio Issao Kuwajima Bentley Systems, Exton, Pennsylvania
  • Alesi Teixeira Mendes Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF University of Brasilia (UNB), Brasília, DF
  • Valéria Maria de Rodrigues Fechine Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF
  • Gesmar Rosa dos Santos Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5380/dma.v62i0.89502

Keywords:

water, management, monitoring, Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

This article addresses the methodology adopted by the United Nations (UN) to calculate the indicators for the sixth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 6: Drinking water and sanitation) and the results for Brazil. The focus is on target 6.1 and indicator 6.1.1, which address the provision of safe water for all. The main databases available in Brazil and a descriptive and interdisciplinary approach to the subject are used. We present weaknesses in the calculation parameters and available data and emphasize his importance in translating local and regional realities in line with national laws and regulatory acts. Differences were observed between the results presented by different entities responsible for indicator 6.1.1, leaving doubts about its contribution to guide policies aimed at universalizing services. Regarding other indicators, such as participatory governance and integrated management, they are based heavily on processes and not on practical results, being insufficient in the case of developing countries like Brazil. New indicators are suggested for SDG 6, in addition to the 11 currently measured, to cover all directives present in its eight goals.

Author Biographies

Julio Issao Kuwajima, Bentley Systems, Exton, Pennsylvania

Doutor em Ciências da Engenharia Ambiental - USP. Engenheiro da Bentley Systems.

Alesi Teixeira Mendes, Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF University of Brasilia (UNB), Brasília, DF

Doutorando em Tecnologia Ambiental e Recursos Hídricos - UNB.

Assistente de Pesquisa - IPEA.

Valéria Maria de Rodrigues Fechine, Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF

Doutoranda em Desenvolvimento, Sociedade e Cooperação Internacional - UNB.

Gesmar Rosa dos Santos, Institute of Applied Economic Research (Ipea), Brasília, DF

Doutor em Desenvolvimento Sustentável - UNB

Técnico de Planejamento e Pesquisa - IPEA

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Published

2023-11-10

How to Cite

Kuwajima, J. I., Mendes, A. T., Fechine, V. M. de R., & Santos, G. R. dos. (2023). SDG 6 indicators: importance and methodological differences in first measurements. Desenvolvimento E Meio Ambiente, 62. https://doi.org/10.5380/dma.v62i0.89502

Issue

Vol. 62 (2023): Psychoanalysis, philosophy and political ecology - Water, Sanitation and SDGs in Brazil: challenges, contradictions and governance

Section

Water, Sanitation and SDGs in Brazil: challenges, contradictions and governance

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