Geography, Sao Paulo, Brazil- 2026

What is a megacity?

An urban area with 10 million or more people.

Where is São Paulo located?

Southeastern Brazil, South America.

How many people lived in São Paulo municipality in 2022?

Approximately 11.45 million.

How many people lived in the wider metropolitan region?

Approximately 20.7 million.

What is urban growth?

The increase in the population and size of a city.

What are the three main challenges facing São Paulo?

Housing inequality, traffic congestion and environmental problems.

What is the main aim of sustainable urban planning?

To improve liveability and make cities more sustainable.

What is housing inequality?

When people have unequal access to safe, suitable and affordable housing.

What is a favela?

An informal urban settlement, often with inadequate housing or services.

What is an example of a favela in São Paulo?

Paraisópolis.

What causes housing inequality in São Paulo?

Rapid urban growth, migration and differences in income.

What are two impacts of housing inequality?

Overcrowding and unequal access to sanitation and healthcare.

How can São Paulo improve housing?

Build affordable homes, improve existing housing and provide clean water and sanitation.

What is one limitation of improving housing?

It requires funding and effective planning.

What are the main transport problems in São Paulo?

Traffic congestion and air pollution.

What causes traffic congestion in São Paulo?

A large population and high demand for road transport.

What are two impacts of traffic congestion?

Longer travel times and increased vehicle emissions.

How can São Paulo reduce transport pollution?

Improve public transport and encourage people to use buses instead of private cars.

What is São Paulo's target for its zero-emission bus fleet?

2038.

What is one benefit of zero-emission buses?

They can reduce transport emissions and improve air quality.

What is one limitation of improving public transport?

It requires investment and reliable services.

What environmental challenges does São Paulo face?

Flooding and pressure on urban waterways.

Why do paved surfaces increase flood risk?

They stop rainwater from soaking into the ground.

What can happen when heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems?

Flooding can damage property and disrupt transport.

How can São Paulo reduce flooding?

Improve drainage, protect waterways, create green spaces and use water-absorbing surfaces.

What is one benefit of green spaces?

They help rainwater soak into the ground and improve environmental resilience.

What is one limitation of environmental strategies?

They require long-term planning and investment.

What does liveability mean?

How suitable and comfortable a place is for people to live in.

What does sustainability mean in urban planning?

Meeting people's needs while protecting the environment for the future.

What are the main solutions to São Paulo's urban challenges?

Better housing, improved public transport and environmental planning.

What determines whether urban strategies are successful?

Funding, effective implementation and whether benefits reach the whole population.

What is the main conclusion about São Paulo?

Sustainable urban planning is essential to keep the city liveable as it grows.