An Example of How Bad Public Relations Can Defeat a Good Water Pollution Control Project

Cedae, a Rio de Janeiro Government Agency, carefully planned and designed an ocean outfall to be built in Barra da Tijuca, one of the most valuable and beautiful dwelling regions of Rio de Janeiro.

Due to the non-implementation of a public enlightening campaign, Cedae had to face radical community opposition to the outfall construction, fronted by very active persons, interested in personal promotion in a political elective period.

The authors concluded that it is indispensable for any planned public work to put an action in enlightening public information program, based on fact and mutual understanding, to inform the community to be served about the various technical, economical and social questions involved and as to the facilities to be built.