SOCIAL TECHNOLOGY OF MORINGA OLEIFERA ON THE JOSÉ WALTER STREAM AND RIVER COCÓ

Abstract

This article aims to develop and evaluate a low-cost social technology based on the natural biocoagulant Moringa oleifera for the remediation of water quality in the José Walter drainage canal and the receiving bed of the Cocó River, in Fortaleza, Ceará. The methodology involved sampling raw water and local seeds, applying 1% seed powder under rapid and slow stirring, gravitational settling for 48 hours, and simple paper filtration, followed by physical-chemical and microbiological analyses benchmarked against regulatory standards (CONAMA Resolution 357/2005 and Ordinance GM/MS 888/2021). Laboratory findings demonstrated 100% inactivation of Escherichia coli and total coliforms across all sample sites. A significant reduction was achieved in chloride levels (up to 89%), total dissolved solids (up to 95%), electrical conductivity (>90%), and nitrates (98% in the Cocó River), maintaining neutral pH stability (6.55 to 7.36). Residual turbidity and localized ammonia highlight the need for subsequent coupling with a porous media filter. In conclusion, the Moringa filter establishes itself as a feasible social technology for aquatic decontamination and community environmental citizenship.