Neurourbanismo e normativas urbanísticas: integração de indicadores de bem-estar mental ao planejamento urbano

Abstract

This research investigates the potential for integrating neurourbanism principles into Brazilian urban planning regulations, seeking to understand how the incorporation of cognitive, emotional, and sensory dimensions of urban space can contribute to the formulation of healthier cities that promote well-being. It proceeds from the premise that the national regulatory framework, which governs everything from urban indices to accessibility and comfort guidelines, still lacks parameters that account for the cognitive and emotional aspects of the urban environment. The analysis focuses on three technical standards from the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT), which are essential for urbanism practice and regulation. Existing standards in this field, such as NBR 16636-3 (ABNT, 2020b), NBR 9050:2020 (ABNT, 2020a), and NBR 6505:1994 (ABNT, 1994), prioritize physical and quantitative parameters, thereby relegating the subjective aspects that influence individual perception and mental health to a secondary role. A qualitative and exploratory approach was adopted, structured in three complementary stages: a theoretical systematization of the field of neurourbanism and its contributions to contemporary urban planning; a documentary and comparative analysis of Brazilian technical standards; and the proposal of a preliminary model for integrating neurourbanism principles into regulatory guidelines, presented as a technical annex. Results indicate that the incorporation of neurourbanism indicators expands the scope of urban norms by including parameters focused on user cognition, behavior, and well-being. Furthermore, it was found that the dialogue between neuroscience and urbanism offers pathways to enhance public policies and technical urban planning instruments in Brazil. The theoretical contribution of this research lies in the consolidation of an interdisciplinary framework between neuroscience and urbanism, while its practical contribution is expressed through the proposal of guidelines applicable to the revision of technical standards, particularly regarding accessibility, urban indices, and design guidelines, with the ultimate goal of promoting mentally healthy and socially balanced cities.