AVALIAÇÃO DA DEMANDA HÍDRICA POR EMPREENDIMENTOS DE LAVAGEM DE VEÍCULOS NA CIDADE DE RIO VERDE - GO

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the water demand associated with vehicle washing businesses in the municipality of Rio Verde (GO), Brazil, with emphasis on the exploitation of groundwater resources. The methodology integrated water use permit data obtained from the Water Resources Information System of the State of Goiás (SIRHGO) with information collected through on-site visits to establishments. Data regarding water consumption, types of washing systems, service profiles, and management practices were gathered and subsequently processed and spatially analyzed using QGIS software. The results showed a predominance of semi-automatic washing systems, as well as a strong dependence on groundwater abstraction. The total estimated water demand was 156,894.40 m³/month, a value significantly higher than the granted abstraction volume of 102,670.42 m³/month, indicating a possible discrepancy between actual consumption and established regulatory limits. Thus, vehicle washing activities represent relevant water use in the local context, with potential pressure on groundwater resources. The findings highlight the need for the adoption of more efficient technologies, as well as improvements in public policies and management instruments that promote the sustainable use of water resources.