Incorporation of Sustainability Criteria in the Minha Casa, Minha Vida Program Developments in São Gonçalo/RJ

Abstract

Objective – To analyze the incorporation of environmental sustainability criteria in housing projects of the Minha Casa Minha Vida Program (PMCMV) in the municipality of São Gonçalo (RJ), between 2012 and 2022, focusing on its relationship with the construction industry and the principles of bioclimatic architecture, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency.

Methodology – The study is based on a literature review on sustainability in civil construction, analysis of legal and regulatory instruments related to the PMCMV, and document analysis of Neighborhood Impact Reports (RIV) and Neighborhood Impact Studies (EIV) submitted by the developments to the municipal authorities. The investigation focused on five variables representative of environmental impact in the construction sector: (i) planned disposal of solid waste; (ii) adequacy of disposal methods when provided; (iii) proposed measures to mitigate air pollution; (iv) adequacy of these measures; and (v) planned actions to mitigate the increase in local temperature.

Originality/relevance – This work contributes to the discussion on environmental sustainability in large-scale housing programs, highlighting the importance of regulations in ensuring the effectiveness of mitigation measures in social housing projects.

Results – The data indicate that the developments analyzed are more compliant with environmental mitigation measures when these are clearly established in legal and regulatory frameworks. In contrast, in the absence of specific guidelines, companies tend to be less proactive in identifying and implementing sustainable actions.

Theoretical/methodological contributions – The research proposes a critical approach to evaluate the effectiveness of normative frameworks in promoting environmental sustainability in social housing. It also presents a replicable methodology for analyzing EIVs and RIVs in the urban context.

Social and environmental contributions – By discussing the effectiveness of sustainable practices in the PMCMV, the study offers insights for the improvement of public housing policies and the promotion of more resilient and environmentally responsible cities.