ISSN 2318-8472 Primary Area - Qualis Capes 2017-2020 Architecture, Urbanism, and Design We are pleased to inform you that the National Journal of City Management has achieved a Qualis A3 classification, as per the results released on 12/29/2022. The National Journal of City Management aims to disseminate scientific works originating from empirical, experimental, or conceptual research, resulting from master's, doctoral, or equivalent studies. Important: Starting in 2020, articles will be published in both English and Portuguese. Submissions of articles authored or co-authored by undergraduate or postgraduate students will not be accepted. All authors must be affiliated with stricto sensu graduate programs or hold at least a master's degree.
ANAP - Associação Amigos de Natureza de Alta Paulista
Objective – To systematically analyze reinforcement techniques applied to unreinforced masonry, focusing on gains in mechanical strength, particularly compressive and shear resistance, as well as on the limitations associated with the different reinforcement systems reported in the scientific literature. Methodology – A Systematic Literature Review was conducted based on a predefined search protocol, clear inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the application of the PRISMA method for study selection. The selected articles were analyzed according to masonry type, reinforcement technique, experimental configuration, percentage gains in strength, and reported limitations Originality/Relevance – This study addresses a relevant gap in the literature by providing a comparative and integrated synthesis of mechanical performance gains and technical limitations of the main reinforcement systems applied to unreinforced masonry, supporting a critical assessment of their structural effectiveness and practical applicability. Results – The results indicate that the highest strength gains are predominantly associated with in-plane shear loading, especially for systems based on textile- or fiber-reinforced mortars, such as TRM and FRCM, with increases frequently exceeding two hundred percent. Gains in compressive strength were generally more moderate and mainly related to confinement mechanisms. The most recurrent limitations include performance variability, premature failure at the reinforcement–substrate interface, chemical incompatibility, and restrictions on application in historic masonry. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study consolidates a comparative framework relating mechanical performance and technical limitations of reinforcement systems and highlights the need for more suitable design models for systems based on inorganic matrices. Social and Environmental Contributions – The findings support the selection of reinforcement solutions that are more compatible with existing and historic buildings, contributing to safer, more durable interventions aligned with sustainability and built heritage conservation principles.
Tiago Ancelmo de Carvalho Pires de Oliveira
Copyright (c) 2026 National Journal of City Management https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Relationships between urban configuration and the vitality of squares in Juiz de Fora (MG)
Objective – to investigate the relationship between urban street network configuration and the vitality of 84 public squares in the municipality of Juiz de Fora (MG), considering not only configurational aspects but also the physical characteristics of these spaces that may contribute to or hinder their appropriation and use. Methodology – the study adopts a quantitative approach based on the analysis of syntactic measures of the urban network (INT.R3, NAIN, NACH, and INCH) and the measurement of user density in each square, seeking to identify statistical correlations between spatial configuration and patterns of use of public spaces. Originality/Relevance – by empirically investigating the relationship between spatial configuration and the urban vitality of public squares in the Brazilian context, this study expands the body of evidence linking Space Syntax to public spaces. It stands out for analyzing the entirety of a city’s public squares, overcoming approaches based on reduced samples, and for employing statistical instruments that enable an integrated assessment of urban morphology and patterns of use of public open spaces. Results – the results indicate that public squares in Juiz de Fora present heterogeneous distributions and vitality patterns across Planning Regions, with a greater concentration of both squares and vitality levels in the city’s central area. Statistical analyses revealed positive and significant correlations between user density and the syntactic measures, although with weak to moderate magnitude, indicating that urban configuration influences vitality but does not act as a determining factor. Contrasting cases stand out, such as Praça Armando Toschi, which shows high vitality in a context of low integration, and Praça Mundo Novo, which, despite high spatial integration, records low levels of use, highlighting the limits of spatial configuration as an isolated factor. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – the study reinforces the contribution of Space Syntax Theory to the understanding of urban vitality by evidencing its scope and limitations when applied empirically and tested statistically. Methodologically, it highlights the analysis of the entire set of public squares in a city and the articulation between syntactic measures and observational data on use, contributing to integrated approaches in the investigation of public open spaces. Social and Environmental Contributions – the findings provide support for urban planning by indicating that the qualification and use of public squares depend on the articulation between spatial configuration, physical attributes, and surrounding land uses. In this sense, the study may guide public policies aimed at improving, redistributing, and creating public squares, promoting greater social inclusion, access to leisure facilities, and the valorization of urban public spaces.
Objective – To examine how the structuring roads influenced the urban expansion, mobility, and environmental dynamics of Cuiabá-MT, analyzing how the relationship between road infrastructure and the environment shaped the city's urbanization pattern. Methodology – The research used a qualitative and documentary approach, with analysis of data from IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), master plans (1938–2024), urban legislation, academic studies, and cartographic and image records. The stages analyzed urban expansion, environmental constraints, and the impacts of the structuring roads. Originality/relevance – Despite the relevance of medium-sized tropical cities in the Brazilian urbanization process, studies that integrate historical, cartographic, and environmental analysis to understand the structuring effects of the road network on the territory are still scarce. Cuiabá, in particular, remains under-investigated from a perspective that articulates mobility, environment, and urban growth. Results – The results indicate that the structuring roads functioned as vectors of urban expansion, increasing territorial dispersion and dependence on individual transportation. They also highlight significant impacts on environmentally sensitive areas. The combination of road-centric development, peripheral growth, and environmental vulnerabilities has intensified inequalities in access to the city and compromised the efficiency of mobility. Theoretical and methodological contributions – The study shows how urban and environmental factors combine to explain the fragmented growth of Cuiabá. The form of analysis, which brings together documents, maps, and images, is direct and can be applied to research on other medium-sized cities. Social and environmental contributions – The results help guide public actions aimed at improving mobility, protecting sensitive areas, and better organizing urban growth. They also reveal differences in access to infrastructure, indicating ways to reduce inequalities and support more sustainable planning.
Objective – To investigate what occurred to the first ten streams in the city of Manaus. Methodology – Qualitative research based on historical-documentary survey, comparative cartographic analysis, and observation of the urban landscape. Originality/Relevance – The study fills a theoretical gap by relating the transformation of streams to the impacts of urbanization and climate change in Amazonian cities. Results – Most of the streams analyzed were filled in and canalized, and the areas where they once flowed now coincide with flood-prone zones during extreme flood events. The larger streams lose navigability during extreme droughts. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The research highlights the importance of incorporating hydrological memory into urban planning, proposing a reinterpretation of the interventions on streams in Manaus. Social and Environmental Contributions – Reinforces the need for public policies that value streams as ecological, cultural, scenic, and functional elements for a city more resilient to climate change.
Bibliometric analysis on the incorporation of tire waste into gypsum composites
Objective – This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric review of the experimental research on the use of rubber waste from end-of-life tires in gypsum-based composites. Methodology – The steps that guided this research consisted of defining the search string on the Scopus and Web of Science platforms; using the PRISMA protocol to select and include the articles in the sample of this study and using tools to organize the extracted data. Originality/Relevance – This study showed the scarcity of scientific studies on the subject, indicating that gypsum and rubber composites hold significant promise for future research. Results – The inclusion of gypsum-rubber composites in scientific research is considered recent, with most articles published from 2020 onward and Spain publishing most studies on the subject. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – Its bibliometric data offers an overview of the current state of research on sustainable gypsum- and rubber-based materials produced with circular economy criteria in civil construction. Social and Environmental Contributions – It shows a means of investigation to mitigate environmental impacts caused by the excessive accumulated volume and improper disposal of used tires.
Assessing urban infrastructure and access to essential services for active mobility
Objective – To present the conceptual and methodological development of the Urban Infrastructure Services for Active Modes Index (SIUMA), designed to integratively assess urban infrastructure for walking and cycling in relation to access to essential services, with particular focus on municipalities with up to 100,000 inhabitants. Methodology – The study was conducted through a systematic review of national and international literature, categorization of the most recurrent indicators, consultation with experts and professionals in the field, and verification of data availability in public databases. The weighting of domains, themes, and indicators was carried out using the Structured Pairwise Comparison method, resulting in the final structure of the index, calculated exclusively with public data and geoprocessing techniques. Originality/Relevance – The study is based on opportunities identified in the literature regarding the integration between urban infrastructure and access to essential services, as well as the operational feasibility and replicability of assessment instruments, especially in cities with up to 100,000 inhabitants. Results – SIUMA was structured based on 14 indicators distributed across three main domains, constituting a practical, transparent, replicable, and low-cost methodological tool capable of integratively assessing urban conditions for active mobility. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study advances knowledge by proposing an integrated index that articulates urban infrastructure and access to essential services, using a structured weighting methodology and public data, thereby expanding applicability and comparability across different urban contexts. Social and Environmental Contributions – SIUMA provides support for urban diagnostics and active mobility planning, contributing to the strengthening of urban resilience and to improving equitable access to essential services, particularly in municipalities with up to 100,000 inhabitants.
Objective – To investigate, through case studies, the current condition of streams located within housing complexes built by CDHU between 1989 and 2014 in Itaim Paulista, São Paulo, for which green areas and protective buffer zones were originally planned. Methodology – Literature review on floods and housing in risk areas, focusing on the Global South. Survey of CDHU housing complexes using: maps and drawings provided by the Company, data obtained from Geosampa, aerial imagery, photos, and site visits. Verification of the current condition of the areas adjacent to streams in the selected housing complexes. Quantification and discussion of the results. Cross-analysis of the empirical findings with the theoretical framework. Originality/Relevance – The research addresses a concrete urban problem in a stream-permeated region of São Paulo: the Itaim Paulista district. Occupations were found in risk areas within housing complexes produced by the State, with populations settled in critical zones whose situation is likely to worsen with climate emergencies. The study addresses the complex and contradictory process regarding the origin and development of these areas. It contrasts the implementation of the housing program which, from the design sector's perspective, included solutions to preserve green areas and stream protection zones, and the subsequent developments and transformations that occurred after the housing complexes were completed. These later changes involved the occupation of many areas, with critical points being identified. Results – The findings demonstrate that the open spaces originally planned within the housing complexes, which were located in the protected buffer zones along streams and rivers, were occupied in the majority of the cases studied. These areas often represent the only available alternative for a segment of the population to build housing, leading them to settle in high-risk zones. The research highlights a dual failure: the lack of a comprehensive housing policy to accommodate the most vulnerable population, coupled with the State's inability to manage and maintain the green areas that were initially demarcated in the project for environmental protection alongside rivers and streams. Within these settlements, the lack of basic sanitation and the population's proximity to the stream banks contribute to water pollution and soil impermeability and increase the risk of the population contracting diseases and suffering from episodes of overflow and the ruin of their homes. Public management's leniency in caring for green areas, combined with the absence of a housing policy that served the entire population, contributed to the consolidation of an unfavorable urban scenario, which is further aggravated by climate change. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – This research consolidates its theoretical contribution by validating, within a specific context, the relationship between state-produced housing and the production of environmental risk in urban areas. The literature review engaged with authors who have conducted systematic surveys of the scholarly production on precarious urbanization and flooding in Global South cities. The empirical investigation conducted here confirms that several causal factors identified in this foundational literature manifest in the studied areas. Furthermore, the study advances the field through its precise methodological framework, which selected CDHU housing complexes built between 1989 and 2014 in a district on São Paulo's east side, enabling a detailed verification of the condition of the streams that intersect these spaces. Social and Environmental Contributions – This research engages directly with the UN Sustainable Development Goals—specifically SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It provides critical insights to understand the processes of riverbank occupation in communities living under risk, identifying a recurring pattern in housing complex areas. It thus points to the necessity of seeking an integrated solution between housing policies and environmental policies with an emphasis on urban drainage, once the majority of open space destined for water preservation and accommodation is being contested by populations not served by housing programs for the construction of their homes.
Analysis of the second smartest city in Brazil in 2024
Objective – This article aims to analyze the city of Vitória, in the state of Espírito Santo, which was recognized as the second smartest city in Brazil in 2024, according to the Connected Smart Cities Ranking. The study focuses on the context of its urban planning and from there, the analysis of some indicators of the health and education axes. Methodology – Using a qualitative-quantitative approach, the research was based of secondary data from specialized reports, academic articles, and official documents. Originality/Relevance – The purpose of the work aims to fill a theoretical gap by investigating the practical application of the concept of smart cities in the Brazilian context, highlighting the relevance of specific indicators for sustainable development and improving the quality of urban life. Results – The results reveal that Vitória stands out for its efficiency in managing health, urban infrastructure, and education, implementing practices that favor social inclusion and environmental sustainability. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – This work contributes to a deeper understanding of the essential pillars of smart cities, proposing an integrated analysis of these indicators. Social and Environmental Contributions In addition, it presents significant social and environmental implications that position Vitória as a reference model
Housing crisis and urban inequality in Latin America
Objective – To critically analyze the housing crisis in Latin America as a structural expression of social and urban inequality, demonstrating how housing, rather than promoting inclusion, has operated as a mechanism of exclusion and reproduction of socio-spatial hierarchies. Methodology – The study adopts a qualitative, critical-interpretative approach, based on a literature review and documentary analysis of multilateral organizations, combined with a comparative case study strategy (Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia), mobilizing categories such as coloniality, the right to the city, uneven urbanization, financialization, and intersectionality. Originality/relevance – The article contributes to critical debate by shifting the understanding of the housing crisis from a technical-quantitative perspective to a structural interpretation, highlighting its links to coloniality, financialization, and the reproduction of urban inequalities. It articulates critical social theory with comparative empirical evidence in Latin America, revealing gaps in traditional approaches to housing policies. Results – The analysis identifies common patterns across the region, such as peripheralization, the capture of housing policies by market interests, and the production of precarious solutions, as well as national specificities: in Brazil, the production of new peripheries; in Mexico, the mass abandonment of housing units; and in Colombia, precariousness associated with forced displacement. It concludes that social housing has reproduced rather than mitigated inequalities. Theoretical/methodological contributions – The study proposes understanding housing as a central analytical category in the production of urban inequalities, integrating different theoretical frameworks (coloniality, financialization, uneven urbanization, and intersectionality), and demonstrating the analytical strength of comparative approaches in revealing structural patterns in Latin America. Social and environmental contributions – The study highlights the need to reorient housing policies toward the promotion of the right to the city, advocating land regulation, the capture of land value increments, the production of well-located housing, and the incorporation of racial, gender, and environmental equity perspectives, aiming to reduce socio-spatial segregation and improve living conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 National Journal of City Management https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Objective – To analyze how the configuration of the urban environment influences the physical, mental, and social health of the population, demonstrating that factors such as green areas, active mobility, environmental comfort, noise control, sociability, safety, and access to essential services constitute structural determinants of well-being. The study seeks to demonstrate that neighborhoods structured under principles of social urbanism and socio-environmental integration have greater potential to promote healthy and sustainable cities. Methodology – The study adopts a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach, based on theoretical and documentary review of institutional reports (PPS, UN, WHO, European Union), national and international scientific studies, Brazilian technical standards (NBR 10.151 and NBR 10.152), and empirical case analyses. The investigation articulates frameworks from public health, urban planning, and sustainability to understand the relationship between the built environment and collective well-being. Based on the bibliographic framework, the study systematizes a set of analytical keys that structure the understanding of the healthy city: i) territorial inequality, ii) environmental comfort, iii) green infrastructure, iv) social capital, v) active mobility, and vi) integrated governance. Originality/Relevance – The study addresses a theoretical gap at the intersection of urban planning, public health, and socio-environmental justice, overcoming fragmented approaches that treat health as an exclusively biological phenomenon. By integrating evidence on socio-spatial segregation, urban heat islands, noise pollution, and social capital, the research reinforces the need for urban policies structured around the social determinants of health, contributing to the contemporary debate on healthy cities in the context of climate change and urban inequalities. Results – The findings indicate that spatial segregation and infrastructural precariousness are associated with poorer health indicators, while thermal differences between neighborhoods disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Noise pollution negatively impacts well-being, with cognitive and cardiovascular consequences. Conversely, the presence of green spaces, active mobility, and strengthened social support networks reduces risks to physical and mental health. Strategies based on public space qualification and socio-environmental integration demonstrate potential to mitigate environmental impacts and strengthen community bonds. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study advances the debate on healthy cities by integrating environmental health, urban comfort, social capital, and participatory planning within a unified analytical framework. Methodologically, it systematizes diverse empirical evidence from an integrated socio-spatial perspective, offering a framework applicable to public policy formulation and territorial interventions. Social and Environmental Contributions – Socially, the study reinforces the need for urban policies that promote inclusion, belonging, and the reduction of territorial inequalities. Environmentally, it highlights the expansion of green areas, noise control, mitigation of urban heat islands, and the promotion of active mobility as concrete strategies to enhance climate resilience and improve urban quality of life.
Methodology for Analyzing Road Safety in the Vicinity of Trip-Generating Centers
Objective – To develop an instrument for Road Safety (RS) analysis in the vicinity of Trip Generators (TGs), aiming to assess the impacts of these developments on the safety of the urban road system. Methodology – Based on a literature review, it was possible to select similar existing instruments, compile information, analyze relevant aspects, and develop the methodology for RS inspection. Initially, the six selected references resulted in 467 observational analysis parameters, which served as the technical basis for creating the 10 analysis items that comprise the checklist with 24 aspects to be verified. The developed checklist is accompanied by its Practical Guide for Application and Indicator Calculation, favoring the application and quality of the obtained results. Originality/Relevance – The study fills an important gap in the area of urban road safety, given the lack of specific instruments applicable to the Brazilian urban context, especially in the areas of influence of TGs. Brazilian cities face growing problems related to ineffective urban mobility and low levels of road safety, externalities associated with population growth and urban development, a context in which TGs can significantly aggravate the risks of traffic crashes. Results – A structured checklist was developed with 10 analysis items and 24 aspects to be verified, accompanied by a Practical Guide for Application and Indicator Calculation. The instrument not only verifies the compliance of each item but also numerically estimates the level of adherence to the criteria through a system of indicators, weights, and a general road safety assessment index. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The developed instrument represents a methodological advancement by offering a systematic, practical, and quantitative approach to road safety analysis in urban areas influenced by TGs. The tool distinguishes itself by combining simplicity in data collection with rigor in evaluation, enabling not only qualitative diagnoses but also the objective measurement of road safety levels through weighted indicators. Social and Environmental Contributions – It is expected that the use of the instrument will contribute to the reduction of traffic crashes and their social consequences, including fatalities, injuries, and economic impacts on public health. The tool can support more assertive strategies and decision-making by public managers, technicians, and developers in promoting road safety, favoring sustainable urban planning and the construction of safer cities for all road system users.
Construction and Demolition Waste and the Contradictions of Sustainability
Objective – This article aims to develop a critical reflection on construction and demolition waste, analyzing it as an expression of the contradictions between the discourse of sustainability and the productive practices that structure the production of urban space. Methodology – This is a theoretical-conceptual study, based on a critical review of specialized literature and normative documents on sustainability, construction, solid waste, and environmental education, without the use of primary empirical data. Originality/Relevance – The originality of the study lies in addressing construction and demolition waste as a central category for understanding the limits of urban sustainability, going beyond approaches restricted to technical management or regulatory compliance. Results – The results indicate that the persistence of waste generation stems from structural choices made throughout the construction industry’s production chain, highlighting the gap between legal advances and effective transformations in construction practices. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study contributes by articulating sustainability, normativity, life cycle, and environmental education, reaffirming the potential of theoretical-conceptual essays for the critical analysis of complex urban processes. Social and Environmental Contributions – From a social and environmental perspective, the article shows that construction and demolition waste intensifies territorial inequalities and environmental impacts, pointing to environmental education as a structuring element for changing productive and cultural practices.
Objective – To design and implement a rainwater harvesting and irrigation automation system for food plant beds located in a community garden under an impermeable roof, reducing dependence on manual irrigation by volunteers and promoting sustainable water management. Methodology – This applied research, with an exploratory and experimental approach, included bibliographic and technical surveys on rainwater harvesting systems, irrigation automation, and sustainable urban agriculture. The project was developed through field measurements, hydraulic efficiency tests, and component adjustments, resulting in the installation of an automated irrigation system at Horta das Flores, located in the eastern region of São Paulo, Brazil. Relevance – The proposal integrates engineering, automation, and urban sustainability by applying accessible technology for rainwater reuse in a community and educational context. The studied garden functions as a pedagogical space, hosting events and educational activities on sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), thus reinforcing the connection with the 2030 Agenda. It stands out for its replicability in small-scale urban gardens and its direct contribution to SDGs 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, and 13. Results – The system proved technically and operationally feasible, ensuring regular water supply and reducing manual effort. Field evaluation enabled hydraulic improvements and automation adjustments, confirming the potential for optimizing water use and increasing efficiency in urban water management. Methodological contributions – The study broadens the debate on the application of sustainable technologies and automated systems in urban agriculture, providing technical and academic foundations for replication in other urban contexts. Social and environmental contributions – The project strengthened the integration between university and community, encouraging environmental education, social participation, and shared water governance. By promoting rational water use and local food production, it reinforces the importance of integrated solutions for sustainable cities.
Environment, health and the challenges of urban drainage in the municipality of Presidente Epitácio, Western São Paulo, Brazil
Objective - Identify possible relationships between the environment, health, and problems arising from inadequate urban drainage in the municipality of Presidente Epitácio, state of São Paulo, contributing to reflection on the theme. Methodology - To conduct the research, bibliographic surveys, thematic maps, and analysis of secondary data on hospital morbidity and mortality from 1998 to 2019 were used, in addition to information on dengue and leishmaniasis, by place of residence, from 2007 to 2019, complemented by fieldwork. Originality/relevance – Floods are among the most serious disasters in Brazil, due to the high number of victims, people affected, and socioeconomic losses, aggravated by the expansion of impervious areas. Inadequate urban stormwater management intensifies these impacts and increases health risks, especially with regard to waterborne diseases. In this context, by integrating environmental analysis and health indicators at the local level, the research fills a gap still present in the literature, marked by a scarcity of studies that articulate these dimensions. Results – The results of hospital morbidity revealed that the most prevalent diseases are those of the respiratory system, which rank second in number of deaths. This pattern indicates the influence of environmental and urban conditions on the health of the population. In addition, data on dengue fever have been quite significant in recent years, especially in urban areas, with a worrying increase in cases of American tegumentary leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis, reinforcing the relationship between inadequate urban drainage, water accumulation, and vector proliferation, indicating the need for improvements in the monitoring of health indicators, especially for water-related diseases. Theoretical/methodological contributions – The research contributes to strengthening the integrated approach between urban drainage, environment, and health and, methodologically, to articulating spatial analysis, epidemiological data, and fieldwork, encouraging the adoption of more sustainable and resilient urban drainage systems in the face of technical limitations and the high costs of traditional models. Social and environmental contributions – Drainage systems must be integrated into environmental planning, considering the dynamics of watersheds for more effective solutions, combined with nature-based alternatives and environmental education, which implies changes in habits and attitudes towards the environment.
Objective – To develop a model for the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) associated with Facilities Management (FM) in a hospital Semi-Intensive Unit, based on the diagnosis of the existing management processes in the operational Semi-Intensive Unit of the Military Area Hospital in Recife. Methodology – The analysis was conducted through data collection from the hospital, on site visits to the study location, qualitative data analysis, diagnosis of existing management processes, modeling of the study environment, and simulations using specific software. Originality/Relevance – Application of BIM associated with Facility Management (FM) in the use, operation, and maintenance phase within the hospital context is highly relevant. The aim is to achieve more efficient management, considering that healthcare facilities involve complex systems of installations, equipment, and spaces that require continuos monitoring. Results – It was observed that the integration between BIM and FM in hospital environments represents a concrete opportunity to advance the management of physical and operational assets in healthcare units. This integration enables more accurate visualization of building systems, data centralization, improved component traceability, and contributes to more assertive decision-making by maintenance managers. However, the process of consolidating and structuring information to populate the BIM model with data relevant to FM has proven to be one of the major challenges. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The research demonstrates the importance of a collaborative workflow using BIM model associated with FM in hospital environments, an approach that remains underexplored in the literature. Furthermore, this integration proves to be a highly useful tool with potential for further development in asset management and the centralization of operational data. Social and Environmental Contributions – The study contributes socially by improving patient quality of care and safety, optimizing resources, and creating a more functional and reliable hospital environment for healthcare professionals. Environmental contributions include reduced consumption of resources (such as energy and water), decreased use of paper for issuing work orders, and prints manuals, blueprints, and checklists, as well as improved inventory and materials management. This enhanced management helps prevent excess stock of spare parts and supplies due to the accuracy of the asset data within the model.
Collective Memories in Dispute and Insurgent Identities
Objective – The article aimed to analyze the role of the Kaingang people in the field of institutionalized memory and heritage production from a decolonial perspective. Methodology – The research was conducted through a qualitative-critical approach, grounded in collaborative ethnography, participatory research, and situated listening practices. The case study guided the empirical investigation, articulating observation, documentary analysis, and participation in cultural and educational activities, with an emphasis on co-authorship of knowledge and the situated production of memory. Originality/Relevance – The originality of the study lies in the analysis of Indigenous memory practices based on the agency of the subjects themselves, shifting the focus from institutional representation to self-representation and the co-production of memory. Results – The results indicated that Kaingang participation in the Índia Vanuíre Museum produced significant shifts in museological and educational practices, breaking with traditional exhibition logics and the objectification of Indigenous culture. Practices of shared curation, insurgent museology, and the production of living memory were identified, grounded in orality, performativity, territoriality, and Kaingang cosmological frameworks. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study contributed theoretically by articulating memory as a political dispute, epistemological plurality, and counter-hegemonic heritage practices. Social and Environmental Contributions – At the social level, the research highlighted the strengthening of narrative self-determination and Indigenous protagonism in the construction of public memory. At the environmental level, it emphasized the centrality of territory and forest as foundations of Kaingang memory and knowledge, reaffirming the inseparability between cultural heritage, territory, and socio-environmental justice.
Analysis of Ergonomic Factors in Carpentry Activities
Objective - to assess the impacts of ergonomic factors on health and productivity in the activities of carpenters in the construction industry. Methodology - The study adopted a quantitative-qualitative approach, with an exploratory bias in order to compare productive movement patterns with movement patterns associated with fatigue, using innovative methods such as Kinobot software for movement monitoring and the Bipolar Pain Questionnaire for fatigue assessment, in addition to a form for surveying the profile of workers with a sample of 15 participants, relating ergonomic factors to productivity in daily activities. Originality/relevance – The theoretical gap is the correlation of ergonomic factors with the analysis of movement patterns using Kinobot software to verify these movements and their correlations with productivity. Results – Regarding the Systematic Literature Review, it was noted that there are few studies that relate ergonomics and productivity applied to construction sites. It was found that issues such as climate change, the phase of the work with stages in completion presenting a slower work pace, and fatigue can interfere with the development of activities. It was noted that the different periods of the works should be considered, as they become a determining factor for the perception of fatigue. Theoretical/methodological contributions – although there are studies that abo methodological issues, in addition to the application of questionnaires in stages to identify ergonomic factors, their application and interfaces with productivity represent a differential. Social and environmental contributions – From a social perspective, this study is relevant because it contributes to improving working conditions, promoting the physical and psychological well-being of construction workers. In addition, reducing fatigue and increasing efficiency can generate significant economic benefits for both workers and companies in the sector and, in turn, environmental contributions through better management and use of resources to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.
Benefits of Floating Wetlands beyond water pollution control:
Objective – To synthesize and analyze existing knowledge on the implementation of Floating Treatment Wetlands (FTWs) in water bodies, identifying contributions beyond water quality improvement and their potential as an urban landscape strategy to promote Nature's Contributions to People (NCP). Methodology – A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to identify the main aspects addressed on the topic in scientific publications since 2012, a timeframe that explores the theoretical framework of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), an important reference for the multifunctional perspective of FTWs. Originality/Relevance – Urban water bodies are in increasing decline, not only due to the degradation of water quality but also their invisibility in the population's daily life, a scenario that reveals the profound disconnection between people and nature. Thus, FTWs can be a strategy for the use and appropriation of spaces near water, promoting cultural and ecological values. Results – The implementation of FTWs promotes socio-environmental benefits across all NCP categories (material, non-material, and regulating contributions), confirming their potential for comprehensive integration into urban planning as an NbS, and not merely as a water treatment method. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – A new perspective on the benefits of implementing FTWs in the urban landscape, valuing their multifunctionality, including the suggestion of a nomenclature that reflects such breadth: Floating Ecosystems (FE). Social and Environmental Contributions – Emphasis on the socio-environmental value of FTWs in improving the quality of life, the requalification of urban space, and ecological functions in the promotion of NCP.
Detecting the retention potential of a reservoir influenced by upstream inputs from metropolitan areas
Objective – To evaluate the retention capacity of a hypereutrophic reservoir (Barra Bonita Reservoir – BBR, São Paulo State, Brazil), influenced by tributaries strongly impacted by anthropogenic activities in metropolitan regions. Methodology – Application of a zero-dimensional model using limnological data from 2010 to 2019, considering two upstream monitoring stations (Piracicaba and Tietê rivers) and one downstream station. The following water quality variables were analyzed: ammoniacal nitrogen, biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, thermotolerant coliforms, total chloride, nitrate, nitrite, pH, total phosphorus, total solids, and turbidity. For each variable, retention capacity (alpha parameter) was assessed, resulting in 649 determinations. A Spearman correlation analysis (p-value: 0.05) was performed to explore relationships among reservoir physical characteristics, retention processes, and precipitation. Originality/Relevance – This study applies a zero-dimensional model to assess reservoir retention capacity while explicitly considering temporal variability. Results – Retention time ranged from 16 to 321 days, and the system exhibited a high retention capacity, as indicated by positive alpha coefficients for all analyzed variables. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The findings provide important support for advancing water management strategies and informing public policy formulation aimed at multiple water uses. Social and Environmental Contributions – Despite anthropogenic pressures, the BBR provides an essential ecosystem service by improving downstream water quality through the attenuation of pollutant loads.
Diagnostic Engineering as an Ally for Implementing Accessibility and Achieving the 2030 Agenda SDGs
Objective – This article examines the main stages for assessing accessibility in the built environment, based on a documentary analysis of current legislation and technical standards. It underscores the importance of integrating accessibility considerations during the design, diagnosis, and implementation phases of construction projects. The study identifies specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) directly influenced by effective accessibility implementation and evaluates key 2030 Agenda targets to address gaps in Brazil’s construction industry. Methodology – The research employs a qualitative approach utilizing documentary analysis of regulations, legislation, and standards related to accessibility and diagnostic civil engineering. This integration enables the identification of implementation gaps and the development of technical guidelines for accessibility improvements. Originality/Relevance – The analyzed information fills a theoretical gap by aligning diagnostic engineering practices, such as inspections and reports, with specific SDG targets. Its originality lies in contrasting regulatory and legislative requirements with practical market applications, highlighting the need for qualified interventions to meet the 2030 Agenda’s objective. Results – The fidings provide vast technical guidance to improve professional practices and contributes to the development of public policy and sustainable practices in the construction sector. Theoretical and methodological contributions – The study proposes an interdisciplinary diagnostic framework that integrates technical standards with global sustainability goals. Social and environmental contributions – The research promotes equity, inclusion, and sustainability in the built environment positioning accessibility as both a fundamental right and a key element for achieving the SDGs.
Objective: To analyze socio-spatial segregation in Brazilian cities based on the understanding of structural racism as a constitutive element of the production of urban space, demonstrating how urbanization has historically been organized in a racialized manner—particularly in the post-abolition period—and how this logic persists in contemporary contexts. Methodology: The study adopts a qualitative, deductive approach grounded in a critical theoretical essay. The analysis articulates frameworks from structural racism theory, the coloniality of power, and critical urban studies, in dialogue with documentary analysis of public policies and secondary data from official sources, such as the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), used interpretively to demonstrate patterns of racial inequality in urban space. Originality/Relevance: The article contributes to urban studies by repositioning race as a central analytical category in the interpretation of socio-spatial segregation, confronting the erasure promoted by the ideology of racial mixing (mestiçagem) and by deracialized urban planning approaches. The study advances by demonstrating that the city is not merely a reflection, but an active instrument in the reproduction of racial inequalities, addressing a persistent theoretical gap in Brazilian urban literature. Results: The analysis shows that socio-spatial segregation in Brazil constitutes a historical and institutionalized expression of structural racism, manifested in the unequal distribution of infrastructure, urban services, mobility, and environmental protection. It reveals that urban planning practices, public policies, and real estate valorization dynamics operate in racialized ways, reinforcing the territorial marginalization of Black and peripheral populations. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions: The study strengthens the articulation between critical urban theory, structural racism, and coloniality, contributing to the understanding of segregation as a systemic and adaptive phenomenon. Methodologically, it reaffirms the relevance of the theoretical essay as an analytical tool for unveiling structural mechanisms of exclusion often obscured by technocratic approaches. Social and Environmental Contributions: By making explicit the connections between structural racism, urban segregation, and environmental vulnerability, the article supports debates on territorial justice and anti-racist urban policies. The findings reinforce the need for public policies oriented toward historical reparation, territorial redistribution, and the reduction of socio-environmental inequalities that disproportionately affect Black populations in Brazilian cities.
Objective – Analysis of Urban Density, assessing the capacity to meet housing needs in urbanized areas, without expansion, for the preservation of natural environments. Methodology – Evaluation of various measures of Urban Density, mapping population data (IBGE, 2010) and existing built areas (Data Rio/IPP/2013), over the urbanized area of Rio de Janeiro (IBGE, 2015). Based on this analysis, densification projections were made. Originality/Relevance – Discussions about intensifying the use of urbanized areas, aiming to reduce urban expansion and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), have gained momentum with the urgency of the climate crisis. The relevance of this article lies in the development of a methodology for Density assessment, unfolding into densification projections, which are rarely employed in scientific research. Results – Densification projections resulted in a potential for allocating additional 300,000 housing units, approximately 50% of the total needs and future demands for housing in the city, in an area corresponding to 5% of its territory; demonstrating that urbanized environments can accommodate demographic increases, contributing to the reduction of urban expansion. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The exploration of possible scenarios, resulting from the density projection method, has an important contribution to Urban Planning strategies to combat the causes of climate change. Social and Environmental Contributions – Knowledge about the urban territory, through the analysis of Density and densification projections, can indicate pathways for urban management, with Planning tools that guide the meeting of housing needs in existing spaces, with greater social equality and environmental preservation.
A Review of Enabling Technologies Applied to Real Estate Pricing
Objective – To understand how enabling technologies have been applied to real estate pricing through a systematic literature review, mapping methods, applications, and trends in real estate appraisal engineering. Methodology – A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted following the PRISMA protocol. Searches were carried out in relevant databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science, using a search string with Boolean operators. A total of 55 articles published between 2014 and 2024 were analyzed. Originality/Relevance – This study systematizes scientific articles published over the last ten years on the use of emerging technologies in real estate appraisal, highlighting the contrast between traditional methods and new approaches based on artificial intelligence. Results – Most studies still rely on traditional valuation methods, but there is a growing use of enabling technologies such as machine learning and geoprocessing. China stands out as the country with the largest number of publications. Regarding applications, real estate investment studies predominate (49%), followed by urban planning. The application of artificial intelligence improves accuracy and reduces uncertainty in real estate decision-making. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The findings contribute to the theoretical advancement of real estate appraisal engineering and provide practical insights for developers, construction companies, public agencies, and market agents by pointing out promising methodological and technological trends for property value analysis. Social and Environmental Contributions – From a social perspective, improving accuracy in property valuation strengthens the information base for housing and urban public policies, allowing projects to be better aligned with the real needs of the population. From an environmental standpoint, studies that incorporate ecological variables foster sustainable urban planning, encourage the rational use of land, enhance the value of areas with green infrastructure, and contribute to reducing negative environmental impacts.
Simplified environmental assessment in an urban stream in the Veado stream waterbasin in Presidente Prudente - SP
Objective - To analyze the environmental integrity of the Vale do Sol Stream in a single visit, in the municipality of Presidente Prudente/SP. Methodology - Application of a rapid assessment protocol and the analysis of some limnological parameters. The RAP was applied at three stations along the stream, and the following parameters were evaluated: type of bank occupation; streambed siltation; presence of waste; water odor; presence of substances in the water; water transparency; bottom type; diversity of bottom habitats; substrate types; water surface condition; alterations in the river channel; bank stability; presence of riparian vegetation; extent of the Permanent Preservation Area (PPA); and presence of aquatic plants. For water quality assessment, the parameters of electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, and turbidity were analyzed. Originality/Relevance - The Rapid Assessment Protocol (RAP), despite being a consolidated methodology in the academic and scientific community, has been explored little. Its ease of use, low technological cost, and precision allow for robust environmental analyses. Furthermore, the use of limnological analysis to corroborate the RAP strengthens the relevance and scientific innovation of the work. Results - The environment is anthropized, but the presence of surrounding vegetation contributes to the water meeting conditions in compliance with the limits established by CONAMA Resolution No. 357/2005 for the parameters studied. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions - The study reflects the conditions of the analyzed stream, but it also reflects the vast majority, if not all, of urban water bodies. The analyses performed, being simple, facilitate their use by municipal and water management agencies. Social and Environmental Contributions - The methodology itself allows for an understanding of the important variables for maintaining or restoring the environment adjacent to water bodies, promoting the awareness and consciousness necessary for proactive actions and positive environmental impacts.
Nexus Water-Energy-Food Approach as Decision-Making Support for Climate Resilience
Objective – To analyze water, energy, and food security through the Nexus approach as a decision-making support tool aimed at enhancing climate resilience in the Mogi Guaçu River Basin. Methodology – Deductive research based on qualitative data published on the Brazilian government platform AdaptaBrasil MCTI. The study was conducted in three stages: data collection; analysis of information through georeferenced maps; and the proposal of adaptation measures based on the Nexus approach. Originality/relevance – The study integrates water, food, and energy security within the context of climate change, particularly in river basins. By highlighting mitigation measures with intersectoral impacts, it connects governance and regional planning themes. Results – The water sector was identified as the most threatened during drought periods. The proposed measures emphasize actions to foster climate education, improve water governance, and seek alternatives for agricultural production. Theoretical/methodological contributions – The adoption of the Nexus approach as a tool for integrated analysis and decision-making support. Methodological contribution using data made available on a public consultation platform for territorial diagnosis. Social and environmental contributions – The study proposes measures to strengthen cooperation between the analyzed sectors and to support climate resilience in river basins. It emphasizes the importance of integrated planning for environmental security and quality of life.
Objective – To identify the trends in scientific production regarding climate adaptation policies in urban environments in Latin America, also exploring the existence of plans that involve two or more countries from the same region, transcending borders. Methodology – Systematic Literature Review, with searches in three scientific databases (Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science). After the filtering steps and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 58 articles were analyzed, divided into 04 thematic groups. Originality/Relevance – Given the urgent need for climate adaptation in Latin American cities, the study addresses the gap of multilevel approaches to adaptation policies, which tend to exist only at municipal, state, or national scales, failing to address issues that transcend borders. Results – The results of this systematic review indicated a significant concentration of studies and scientific production focused mainly on diagnosis and planning, with few analyses of already implemented initiatives. Furthermore, a lack of integrated and multilevel approaches to climate adaptation among Latin American countries was noted. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The research found the existence of rare studies and climate adaptation initiatives that transcend local and national borders, which may reflect how policies are created and discussed, pointing to an important research gap to be explored. Social and Environmental Contributions – Among the study's results, it is highlighted that public participation is strategic for the creation of efficient adaptation policies. In this context, it is suggested that investments be made in public education on the topic, enabling more just and effective adaptation measures.
Scientific production on smart cities in Brazil
Objective – This study aims to outline the constitution of the scientific field on "smart cities" in Brazil, Methodology – Bibliometric analysis of 40 dissertations defended between 2013 and 2023. A comprehensive bibliometric mapping was carried out, focusing on variables such as: a) temporal evolution; b) geographical and institutional distribution; c) most covered topics. Originality/Relevance – The study provides a broad and unprecedented perspective on the academic development of the smart cities theme in Brazil. Results – The findings indicate a significant growth in academic production on smart cities during the analysed period, along with thematic concentration in postgraduate programmes in Administration, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Engineering. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The bibliometric analysis applied to the Brazilian context offers an effective tool to map research trends and identify scientific gaps. Social and Environmental Contributions – The study highlights the need for deeper exploration of topics such as public safety, privacy, active social participation, sustainability, and economic impacts, which are crucial for developing more inclusive and resilient smart cities.
Objective – To recognize the potential of the inpainting tool, from generative neural network models for images, as a communication instrument in urban planning. Methodology – Bibliographic research, for a critical and in-depth review of the existing literature, and experimental research, for the empirical verification of hypotheses through testing. In the experimental phase, seven experiments using inpainting were carried out to explore visual solutions that support more sustainable urban planning. Each experiment was designed to address a specific goal of Sustainable Development Goal 11, which seeks to make cities and human settlements more sustainable, through the use of different Brazilian scenarios with challenges to be overcome. Originality/Relevance – The democratization of Generative Neural Network tools for images, such as inpainting, is still at an early stage, and their adoption in professional contexts remains limited. Likewise, studies correlating the use of these networks with urban planning are still scarce, both nationally and internationally. Results – The findings show that the use of this tool may strengthen communication between urban planners and the population, thereby fostering more transparent and participatory urban planning, mitigating ambiguities and losses of meaning during the expression and dissemination of ideas. However, the study also highlights that the role of specialized urban design remains irreplaceable. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study contributes to the literature by proposing the use of inpainting as a complementary representational tool in the field of urban design, articulating concepts of artificial intelligence and sustainable planning. Methodologically, it demonstrates a replicable experimental model capable of testing urban scenarios based on specific SDG goals, opening opportunities for new hybrid approaches between traditional design practices and emerging digital technologies. Social and Environmental Contributions – The research highlights the potential of inpainting to broaden social participation in urban planning processes, by facilitating the understanding of proposals and stimulating dialogue between experts and the community. Environmentally, the tool contributes to reflections on more sustainable urban solutions, by enabling quick and accessible visual simulations that emphasize the importance of integrating ecological and social aspects into city development.
Damage Mapping as a Diagnostic Tool for Pathological Manifestations in Historical Buildings
Objective – To analyze the application of damage mapping techniques for the identification of pathological manifestations in historical buildings, considering their relevance for the preservation of cultural heritage. Methodology – A Systematic Literature Review was conducted based on the PRISMA protocol, using specific criteria for the selection, evaluation, and synthesis of articles. The selected studies were analyzed through quantitative aspects (year of publication, researchers’ origin, and frequency of keywords) and qualitative aspects (types of analyses, structures studied, and methodologies employed to investigate pathological manifestations), chosen due to their relevance to the research context. Originality/Relevance – The study stands out for gathering and systematizing the main approaches to the use of damage maps in historical constructions, contributing to the understanding of the state of the art and consolidating this technique as a reference tool in cultural heritage conservation. Results – The findings revealed a continuous evolution in research employing damage maps, showing advances in complementary methodologies. It was also identified that this technique has increasingly been integrated with other analytical tools, enhancing its accuracy and reliability. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The study provides a structured synthesis of the application of damage maps, presenting relevant parameters for future research and highlighting gaps to be explored. Furthermore, it suggests methodological ways to improve practice by integrating the technique with more robust analytical methods. Social and Environmental Contributions – By strengthening the preservation of historical heritage, the advances discussed in this work contribute to the appreciation of collective memory and cultural identity. From an environmental perspective, the improvement of conservation practices reduces the need for invasive interventions and material waste, favoring more sustainable restoration strategies.
Challenges of Climate Change Adaptation in Brazilian Municipalities
Objective – To identify the challenges faced by Brazilian municipalities in the implementation of climate adaptation actions. Methodology – Systematic review of 77 articles (2014–2024) from the databases ScienceDirect, Scopus and Web of Science. Originality/relevance – Fills a gap regarding the implementation of municipal climate adaptation policies in Brazil. Results – Among the 77 articles analysed, involving 309 researchers, case studies (39%) and quantitative methods prevail, with a focus on São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, highlighting challenges in integrating urban and climate policies. Theoretical/methodological contributions – Reveals scientific fragmentation and regional concentration of research. Social and environmental contributions – Demonstrates a disconnect between public policies and local demands. Indicates weaknesses in municipal climate governance and the need to overcome regional technical and financial inequalities.