ProQAS/AM – Amazonas State Water, Air and Soil Quality Monitoring Program
The Amazonas State Water, Air and Soil Quality Monitoring Program (ProQAS/AM) is a scientific initiative created and coordinated by the Research Group on Chemistry Applied to Technology (GP-QAT) at the University of the State of Amazonas (UEA). Its objective is to assess, monitor, and understand environmental quality dynamics across the major river basins and urban centers of the State of Amazonas. The program was designed to integrate applied research, technological innovation, and environmental management, providing technical and scientific support for public policies aimed at protecting natural resources and for environmental regulatory activities carried out by partner institutions, such as the Amazonas Environmental Protection Institute (IPAAM) and the Amazonas State Secretariat for the Environment (SEMA/AM).
Based on the principles of continuous monitoring, interdisciplinarity, and regionally adapted methodologies, ProQAS/AM integrates a network of laboratories within the Amazonas Chemical Analysis Center (CAQQAT/UEA), including the Water Quality Monitoring Laboratory, Biotechnology Laboratory, Microbiology Laboratory, and Energy Laboratory. The program also benefits from advanced field infrastructure, including the Roberto dos Santos Vieira Research Vessel, designed to support scientific expeditions and sampling campaigns throughout Central Amazonia.
The program follows internationally recognized technical protocols (APHA, ABNT, US EPA, and ASTM) and is aligned with the guidelines established by CONAMA Resolutions No. 357/2005 and No. 274/2000, ensuring the traceability, comparability, and reliability of environmental data.
Key Objectives
Conduct systematic and integrated monitoring of water, air, and soil quality in strategic regions of the State of Amazonas.
Develop environmental indicators and quality indices specifically tailored to Amazonian ecosystems, including blackwater, whitewater, and clearwater rivers.
Develop innovative technologies and methodologies in environmental chemistry, microanalysis, and applied biotechnology.
Promote the development of highly qualified professionals and strengthen regional scientific infrastructure.
Provide scientific support for state-level environmental licensing, regulatory oversight, and environmental management.
Impact and Significance
The ProQAS/AM has established itself as a leading scientific platform for environmental monitoring in the Amazon, generating strategic information to support the integrated management of water and atmospheric resources, pollution control, and the development of environmental public policies.
In addition to its technical and scientific relevance, the program serves as an interdisciplinary training environment, providing students, technical professionals, and public-sector managers with practical experience in laboratory and field activities focused on sustainability and environmental protection.
Established and coordinated by GP-QAT/UEA, ProQAS/AM represents a significant milestone in the integration of applied science, technological innovation, and environmental management. It reinforces UEA’s commitment to the conservation of Amazonian ecosystems and to the advancement of knowledge aimed at promoting the sustainable development of the State of Amazonas.
