Potencial da economia de água potável pelo uso de água pluvial: análise de 40 cidades da Amaz？nia

water scarcity is an increasingly severe problem worldwide due to some factors, such as the excessive consumption of raw water, climate changes, water pollution, and unsustainable water resource consumption. under these conditions, traditional or alternative forms of water resource, such as rainwater, are being considered as attractive options to reduce potable water consumption. in this context, this paper describes the water availability scenario in the amazon region, brazilian northeast, and it evaluates the potential for potable water savings estimated for the residential sector of 40 cities in the region. results indicate that the potential for potable water savings range from 21 to 100% depending on the potable water demand verified in the 40 cities, with an average potential for potable water savings of 76%. the main conclusion is that if there was a government program to promote potable water savings by rainwater usage, there would be significant potable water savings and a consequent preservation of water resources in the amazon region.