The Brazilian City of Salvador is using a discount on property taxes to incentivize the deployment of sustainable technologies in the building sector
The Challenge
Salvador has opted to confront one of the worst economic crises Brazil has endured in recent history by betting on the sustainability market as an economic leverage tool. Encouraging citizens and businesses to develop sustainable projects through reduced taxes will reward an environmental mindset, increase demand for sustainable technologies, and attract new business to the city.
The Solution
Salvador’s IPTU Verde is a property tax tied to a public certification scheme by which building construction and renovation projects are rated according to their investments in sustainable technologies and ability to reduce CO2 emissions. Projects gather points toward a bronze, silver, or gold certification, which awards the developer a 5%, 7%, or 10% discount on the property tax, respectively. The construction and renovation projects that pursue certification under the IPTU Verde are also prioritized under local government permitting of new developments.
The sustainable technologies recognized under the IPTU Verde certification fall within the areas of water and waste management, energy efficiency, and alternative energy sources and range from natural lighting and ventilation to use of rainwater, and wind and solar energy generation. Through the increased demand generated by the IPTU Verde, Salvador aims to attract green companies and position the city as a hub for sustainable business.
Environmental Benefits – Owners of land located in environmental protection areas who opt not to build or exploit the land economically are granted an 80% discount on their property tax.
Economic Benefits – The program aims to develop a sustainable market of equipment, technologies, and services in Salvador based on the expected growth in demand for green building practices generated by the city’s incentives.
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- Benefits
- Economic
- Environmental
- Key Impact
- 80% CO2 reduction as compared to conventional buildings as part of the certification scheme