The Importance of Implementing Sustainable Practices in Municipalities of the Araguaia River Valley, Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Deimison Rodrigues , Ribeiro Ana Cristina de Almeida , Araújo Rildo Vieira de , Camargo Martins Romildo , Silva Vitor Marcelo Alves da , Santos Adriana Bilar Chaquime dos , Nogueira Micaella Lima , Costa Reginaldo B. 
Published: November 2024

Objective: The present work aims to identify and analyze strategies for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in municipalities in Vale do Araguaia in the state of Mato Grosso - Brazil, as well as their benefits and challenges, providing recommendations for promoting sustainable development at the local level.

Theoretical Framework: The text addresses essential strategies for implementing sustainable practices in local communities, such as solid waste management, conservation of water resources, use of renewable energy and promotion of sustainable agriculture. Highlights include recycling and composting to reduce waste, water reuse systems and renewable energy, such as solar, for energy self-sufficiency. Sustainable agriculture strengthens the local economy, while conscious consumption is encouraged by educational campaigns. Community participation and government support are crucial for balancing economic development, social justice and environmental preservation.

Method: This comparative case study analyzed the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 25 municipalities in Mato Grosso, in the Araguaia river basin. Different municipal strategies and contexts were examined, using data from public sources such as the Water and Sanitation Institute and the Sustainable Cities Development Index – Brazil (IDSC-BR). The analysis was organized in a table and the average of the results made it possible to evaluate the level of sustainable development of each city.

Results and Discussion: The research points out that, although the implementation of sustainable practices in municipalities is essential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the results are still below expectations. Only three municipalities achieved average rates, and none achieved satisfactory results. This reveals structural challenges, such as a lack of adequate public policies and budget limitations. The research highlights the need for greater coordination between government spheres, the private sector and civil society, in addition to more concrete and inclusive planning to promote sustainable development.

Research Implications: The practical implications of this study suggest the need for greater integration between government spheres and the private sector to optimize the implementation of the SDGs in municipalities, highlighting the importance of effective public policies and investments in priority areas. Theoretically, the study offers insights into the structural challenges faced by cities, contributing to the debate on sustainable urban management and the development of policy models that can accelerate the achievement of global sustainability goals.

Originality/Value: The originality of the study lies in its detailed analysis of the implementation of the SDGs in municipalities, revealing the specific structural challenges that limit their progress. The value lies in providing a practical overview of the gaps in public policies and local management, in addition to highlighting the need for greater intersectoral coordination to achieve sustainable development, offering valuable guidelines for future urban planning and sustainability policies.