Systematic review of managed aquifer recharge in Brazil

Abstract

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) is an effective climate change adaptation strategy that can substantially increase water supply security. Regardless of the historical water crisis in Brazil, the extent of MAR utilization is relatively limited and considered a new technology in the region. This study aims to systematically review MAR practices in Brazil, as reported in published scientific articles. A Boolean search in seven electronic databases (PubMed, Redalyc, SciELO, ScienceDirect, Springer Link, Taylor & Francis Online, and Wiley Online Library) identified in 28 scientific articles on MAR in Brazil, which were verified and included in this review. The successful application of MAR in Brazil should anticipate future water crises as a tool for adapting to climate change. Public policies and regulations must take a proactive approach to support MAR adoption. More pilot studies should be conducted and widely disseminated to address resistance to MAR practices. Over the past three decades, nearly 30 articles on MAR in Brazil have been published. However, the application of MAR techniques remains limited, with most cases occurring in rural areas. These implementations are likely constrained by insufficient data publication and a lack of large-scale studies.