Cidades inteligentes e sustentáveis frente às mudanças climáticas: mapeamento crítico de planos diretores na metrópole paulista

Abstract

This research critically investigates how the Master Plans of the 39 municipalities in the São Paulo Metropolitan Region (SPMR) have incorporated, in normative and operational terms, guidelines aimed at climate change mitigation and adaptation within the context of building smart and sustainable cities. Grounded in theoretical frameworks on climate urbanism, urban law, and environmental governance, this study articulates normative and socio-spatial dimensions, with particular attention to historical inequalities and vulnerabilities present in the metropolitan territory. Methodologically, the research employs a documentary and normative analysis, structured through a binary protocol (P1–P5) and a weighted index of climate integration applied to the Master Plans. The findings reveal that, although there are specific advances—such as in the municipality of São Paulo, with the Municipal Climate Change Policy (2009) and the Strategic Master Plan (2014)—a general picture of normative gaps, superficial climate guidelines, and limited cross-cutting integration between urban legislation and environmental policies prevails. Sub-regional analyses highlight institutional heterogeneity and the absence of mandatory climate clauses in most municipalities, thereby restricting the effectiveness of territorial planning in the face of climate emergencies. As a contribution, this research proposes guidelines for climate-smart and sustainable urbanism, emphasizing the need for reforms in Master Plans, the creation of climate action zones, the adoption of nature-based solutions, and the strengthening of public digital monitoring platforms. Ultimately, the study underscores the urgency of consolidating a climate-oriented urban law as a necessary condition to align social justice, urban resilience, and sustainability in Brazil’s largest metropolitan area.