UMA NOVA FERRAMENTA PARA A SUSTENTABILIDADE: MINIMALISMO A NEW TOOL FOR SUSTAINABILITY: MINIMALISM

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The present study aimed to present and discuss Minimalism as an anti-consumerist social practice and a sustainable alternative to the current consumption model. Initially, the historical context that favored the resurgence of this movement and its conceptual definition was addressed. The analysis of the data obtained allowed verification of the effectiveness of the minimalist lifestyle in reducing environmental impact and identifying which group demonstrated more sustainable habits. Additionally, a survey was conducted among students from the Environmental and Sanitary Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Architecture and Urbanism programs at Universidade São Francisco to assess their knowledge of Minimalism and sustainable practices. The study also included interviews with both Brazilian and foreign minimalists, aiming to understand their motivations, perceived benefits, and the connection between this lifestyle and sustainability. The data obtained were compared with the scientific literature on the topic to identify behavior patterns, knowledge gaps, and evaluate the potential of Minimalism as a response to contemporary excessive consumerism. The results reveal a lack of knowledge about the minimalist movement and the principles of sustainability among the respondents. This study highlights the importance of reflecting on the impacts of individual consumption on environmental degradation and quality of life, presenting Minimalism as a viable proposal for building a more conscious, balanced, and sustainable society.

Keywords: Minimalism; Consumption; Sustainability; Ecological footprint.