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New Brazilian Census Questions are a Big Step Towards Improved…

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December 18, 2018

New Brazilian Census Questions are a Big Step Towards Improved Mobility

In Brazil, the past decade has been one of monumental cultural, economic, and political change, with huge implications for urban mobility. Brazilian cities have made massive investments in transit around the World Cup and the Olympics, with new BRT lines, metro expansions and cycling infrastructure. At the same time, Brazilian cities underwent rapid growth of it’s motorization rate and continuous urban expansion. As urban housing has become more expensive, many Brazilians have been pushed further and further into suburban areas, and transit investments have not kept pace with this growth. Fortunately, the first step in improving Brazilian’s access to transit and their cities has been taken: starting in 2020, the Brazilian census will include mobility measurements.

The national census is the most comprehensive source of data available for understanding the quality of life of everyday people. In Brazil, as in many nations, the national census is the most important set of data the government uses to guide policy and investments in the next decade. The census is the largest survey conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), aiming to count the number of inhabitants in Brazil and identify their main demographics. It is also the only survey collecting data on living conditions in every Brazilian municipality. By federal law, the investigation has to be conducted every ten years. The 2010 census was the first to investigate commuting time for job and study trips but included limited information about others important aspects of mobility.

Thanks to the determination of local and national mobility groups, the 2020 census will move beyond the commute, and allow a deep dive into transit mode choices, as well a mapping of bus stops, cycleways, and pedestrian crossings. The new question set represents a significant advancement in support of equitable public policy, making a huge improvement in the quantity and quality of information about mobility in the country.

“This is a big win for transport advocates and researchers, and an even bigger win for everyday Brazilians,” says Bernardo Serra, Policy Coordinator for ITDP Brazil, “This data will show us the biggest challenges to transit, walking, and biking access in Brazilian cities, and will help prioritize investments based on the greatest need.”

ITDP Brazil has been advocating for inclusion of mobility indicators in coalition with dozens of local organizations. While the ultimate goal is to improve mobility conditions in Brazil, the indicators will also be helpful in measuring Brazil’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and the New Urban Agenda.

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