Social communication strategies in support of the construction of carbon neutral cities

• Grant number: 25/06923-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Applied Social Sciences - Communications - Journalism and Publishing
• Principal Investigator: Cláudia Echevenguá Teixeira
• Grantee: Ilana Goldstein
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas S/A (IPT). Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Grupo de Usuários Wikimedia no Brasil, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/01115-0 - CCD - Carbon Neutral Cities, AP.CCD

Abstract

The prospect of carbon neutrality in urban areas of Brazilian cities-especially in cities within the state of São Paulo-is a complex challenge that involves a combination of innovative technologies, digital transformation, new materials and sustainable infrastructure, effective public policies, and societal awareness. The objectives of the CCD - Carbon Neutral Cities project are aligned with climate change mitigation, climate resilience, technological innovation, digital transformation, and collaboration across multiple sectors and stakeholders. Given the project's multidisciplinary nature, the many actors that need to be brought together, and the various areas of knowledge involved, it is essential to establish a strong strategy for mobilization, social communication, and outreach. This strategy aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and the general public, as well as integrate the different stakeholders and partners engaged in the project's sectoral tracks (sustainable urban development; road infrastructure and mobility; buildings and civil construction; renewable energy and basic sanitation).It is worth noting that guides and manuals on risk communication, nature-based solutions, housing adaptation, extreme weather events, and climate resilience are among the materials to be produced within the scope of the project. This highlights the importance of widely disseminating the knowledge generated and promoting the creation of collaborative networks among governments, the private sector, civil society, and research institutions to address technical and scientific challenges in an integrated manner. This approach will foster the construction of new knowledge, connections, and shared perspectives, as well as help engage the population in the importance of decarbonization and encourage behavior change.The fellow will collaborate in the definition and execution of communication strategies along two main axes: fostering the decarbonization innovation ecosystem-promoting interaction networks and mobilization of the project's stakeholders; and scientific dissemination of R&D&I results. Additionally, the fellow will work on social mobilization and communication, which are central elements for the success of public policies focused on urban sustainability and decarbonization. Developing effective strategies for engaging society, the productive sector, and public authorities is crucial to ensuring the implementation of actions that promote more sustainable and resilient cities.Communication in this process is not limited to the dissemination of information but involves building narratives that bring the challenges and solutions closer to the public, making the topic accessible and encouraging active citizen participation. Furthermore, mobilizing different stakeholders strengthens collaboration networks, boosting the adoption of sustainable practices and the formulation of policies aligned with carbon neutrality goals.Within this context, the main activities to be developed include:· Activity 1: Identification of social actors and partners involved in the project's five sectoral tracks (sustainable urban development; road infrastructure and mobility; buildings and civil construction; renewable energy and basic sanitation) and definition of tools for team mobilization and integration;· Activity 2: Support in developing a communication plan to define strategies for promoting the project and its outcomes, including the definition of the project brand and assistance in developing the visual identity;· Activity 3: Production of audiovisual and written materials to disseminate the project to civil society, companies, government members, and institutions;· Activity 4: Collaboration in the organization and execution of events, providing communication support before, during, and after the events, with a focus on outreach, audience engagement, and documentation of results. (AU)