Construção com terra e cidades sustentáveis: uma investigação da visão dos profissionais na iberoamérica

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the sectors with the greatest environmental impact, being responsible for the high consumption of natural resources, waste generation, and carbon emissions. Given the need to make the sector more sustainable, Earthen Construction emerges as a viable alternative, as it utilizes local materials, reduces environmental impacts, and improves the thermal comfort of buildings. However, this technique still faces significant barriers, such as the lack of standardization, technical knowledge gaps, market resistance, and social stigmatization. Considering this issue, the present study investigates the perception of professionals working in Ibero-America regarding Earthen Construction, with the objective of identifying challenges, opportunities, and strategies to expand its application in the context of sustainable cities. The research adopted a mixed-method approach, combining semi-structured questionnaires and qualitative interviews with construction professionals, architects, and researchers linked to specialized networks such as Rede ProTerra Ibero-América, Red ProTierra Argentina, and Terra Brasil. The data analysis, conducted using the IRAMUTEQ software, allowed for the identification of patterns and relationships within the participants' discourse, providing an in-depth understanding of the acceptance and barriers associated with this construction technique. The results indicate that Earthen Construction is widely recognized for its environmental, economic, and social benefits, including energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, economic feasibility, and the preservation of traditional knowledge. However, structural obstacles hindering its widespread adoption were identified, such as the absence of specific regulations, resistance from the real estate sector, and the lack of government incentives. Additionally, cultural and aesthetic factors still influence the perception of this technique, as it is often associated with rudimentary buildings, which limits its recognition as a viable alternative for contemporary urban projects. Based on these findings, the study concludes that for Earthen Construction to be effectively integrated into sustainable cities, it is essential to develop public policies and specific regulations, in addition to encouraging its adoption through tax incentives and government subsidies. The research also highlights the need for technical training, both for professionals and for architecture and engineering students, recommending the inclusion of this technique in academic curricula. Furthermore, the combination of vernacular practices and technological innovation can enhance the resistance and durability of earthen buildings, increasing their acceptance in the construction sector. The findings of this study reinforce the importance of Earthen Construction as a sustainable strategy, aligned with the principles of Sustainable Cities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities. Its adoption can reduce the environmental impact of the construction sector, strengthen local economies, and create more resilient and inclusive urban spaces. Thus, this research contributes to the debate on sustainable alternatives for the construction sector, providing insights for future public policies and architectural projects committed to sustainability.