Challenges for sustainable urban transformation in São Paulo: visions, interests and demands under debate

Abstract

The objective of this article is to map the main actors that seek to exert influence in the regulatory arena of urban policy in São Paulo and to identify whether they converge or not with the principles of sustainable urban transformation, according to the precepts of a compact city, with low-carbon emissions, and which aims to reduce social inequalities and promote environmental qualification. Two attempts to change the zoning law, which ocurred in 2018 and 2019, have been chosen as the stage for analysis. Among the main actors and interests in dispute in this arena, the study has identified real estate developers (increased profit margin), neighborhood associations in the expanded central area of the city (protection of local characteristics) and social movements for housing (accessible decent housing). Within this context, the present article discusses the main pressures for changes in the socio-political pact defined by the 2014 São Paulo Master Plan.