ADOPTION AND EVOLUTION OF SUSTAINABILITY CERTIFICATIONS IN BRAZILIAN CIVIL CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

The civil construction sector has undergone significant changes due to the growing demand for sustainable practices. Environmental certifications have emerged as tools to quantify and promote more efficient buildings with lower environmental impact. This study analyzes the evolution of sustainability certification adoption in Brazil by comparing their approaches, scopes, and specific purposes. The research is based on a literature review and data collection from certification systems applicable in the country. Among the main results, the predominance of buildings with LEED and PBE Edifica certifications in the Brazilian market stands out, along with the growth of Selo Casa Azul and EDGE. The distribution of certifications reveals a strong concentration in the Southeast Region, linked to economic development. The study also highlights challenges such as certification costs, the need for renewal, and the discrepancy between certifications granted at the project stage and those effectively completed after construction. It concludes that the choice of the ideal certification depends on factors such as project typology, cost-benefit analysis, and strategic objectives.