Social Cost analysis to support Social Housing Upgrading processes

Abstract

Mass social housing mes (MSHP) are developed worldwide to improve housing conditions for vulnerable families. In Brazil, since 2009, the social housing me designated Minha Casa Minha Vida (MCMV, 'My house My life' in English) has provided affordable housing for a large number of low and middle-income families. Since 2019, this me has been substituted by the me Casa Verde e Amarela (CVeA, Green and Yellow House in English) based on similar policy details. Studies demonstrated that social housing in most parts of the world has negative impacts that can affect users' quality of life and wellbeing. SH conditions are known to have impacts on individual people and larger urban externalities. These problems, in turn, create social costs (SCs). There is, therefore, a need to understand how planning and the quality of urban and architectural design can reduce adverse effects on health and broader social issues in SH, especially for existing developments. This study aims to identify SCs associated with SH, and potential upgrading interventions to improve existing SH conditions that meet user desires and wellbeing. Healthier and more satisfactory housing is considered essential for positive social conditions affecting society as a whole. This study is conducted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which indicates the need to address the issues of SH quality to reduce SCs related to health services. Our investigation focuses on developing a new approach for SH upgrading processes based on protocols to evaluate and mitigate SCs. The study is based on a systematic literature review (SLR), identifying potential SH upgrading elements and SC mitigating factors. These elements and factors are verified through a case study in a SH project based on the MCMV in Campinas, SP, Brazil. Results will be a protocol and indicators for SH upgrading processes to mitigate SCs applicable to local and wider contexts. These contributions, as well, are applicable to new constructions. Upgrading is considered a crucial step towards a more sustainable-oriented construction industry and improving SH conditions based on user values and societal wellbeing.