The Living Lagoon project, a pioneering partnership between Codemar and the Fluminense Federal University (UFF), is revolutionizing the Araçatiba Lagoon in Maricá by introducing innovative sanitation practices. Central to this process are bioinputs, natural micro-organisms which, without chemical components, are released in liquid form and by means of so-called Living Bricks.
The production of Living Bricks involves the creation of a liquid substance containing microorganisms, mud and molasses in large tanks. Later, this mixture is molded into bricks in the pottery. The term “Living” is not only figurative, because the microorganisms remain active, evidenced by the warm temperature of the bricks, indicating the continuous metabolization of sugars by the organisms.
When thrown into the lagoon, the Living Bricks come into contact with the sludge, stimulating the microorganisms to reproduce and transform the sludge into food for other species.
This process creates a food chain, resulting in a significant increase in the diversity of life in Araçatiba Lagoon over the two years of the program.
The positive results are proven by data, including the increase in the variety of species, such as mussels and snails, and the presence of a microalgae that is an indicator of healthy waters.
Careful analysis of the results is possible due to strategic control, limiting the application of Living Bricks to the north side of the lagoon. The side where the Living Bricks were applied experienced a remarkable transformation, while the south side, without intervention, showed slower changes.
The production of Living Bricks takes place at the Biofactory, located in Maricá, and the economic viability is reinforced by the in-house production of bioinputs.
In addition to its environmental effectiveness, the Living Lagoon project contributes significantly to social impact, generating jobs and income for fishermen, making tourism more attractive and contributing to public health.
This innovative approach, adapted to the challenging conditions of Araçatiba Lagoon, offers a viable and effective alternative for basic sanitation, and stands out as a model that can be replicated in other locations. Compared to traditional methods such as dredging, this solution is economically advantageous and environmentally sustainable.
