Fab Lab Livre São Paulo (Brazil): Impacts of the biggest public fab lab network
Through its initiatives, Fab Lab Livre SP is contributing to the growth and development of local communities, promoting innovation, and enabling individuals to actively participate in shaping their technological future.
São Paulo, the most populous city in Brazil with approximately 12 million people (IBGE — Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, 2021), embarked on its journey with the Fab City Network in 2019. Faced with numerous challenges, including social inequalities, the city recognizes the need for innovative solutions to address pressing issues. The Fab City community in São Paulo is actively engaged in initiatives aimed at increasing local production and promoting social inclusion.
At the forefront of these efforts is Fab Lab Livre SP, which has been generating significant impact by providing access to digital manufacturing tools and empowering individuals to develop innovative ideas. With 13 public strategically located fab labs, most of them located in underprivileged areas of São Paulo city, the network enables the local community to access machinery and engage in rapid prototyping, focused in addressing pressing issues of each neighbourhood.
This article sheds light on the transformative work of Fab Lab Livre SP and its commitment to tackling critical issues within São Paulo’s diverse neighbourhoods.
The fab lab network’s activities are designed to address various challenges, including preparing future generations for a rapidly evolving technological society, promoting autonomy in problem-solving at both individual and community levels, advocating for digital inclusion as a public policy, and fostering a transformation in local production towards more conscious and sustainable consumption practices.
What impact is Fab Lab Livre SP generating?
Fab Lab Livre SP is generating significant impact through its activities, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 4, 5 8, 10, 12 and 13.
The impact generated by Fab Lab Livre SP in numbers:
- +252 thousand services, empowering individuals to access digital manufacturing tools and services.
- +72 thousand qualifications, equipping people with skills and knowledge needed to utilise these resources effectively.
- +11.3 thousand individuals sensitised about the importance of technology, sustainability, and community engagement.
- +1.6 thousand trained teachers, promoting the integration of digital fabrication and technological education in schools.
Fab Lab Livre SP programs and projects
Fab Lab Livre SP conducts various training programs aimed at promoting inclusion and skill development. These programs focus on providing opportunities for young people in high vulnerability social groups to engage in digital manufacturing. Additionally, they offer training for individuals with intellectual disabilities and rare conditions, ensuring that these marginalised groups also have access to the benefits of digital fabrication.
In terms of projects, Fab Lab Livre SP actively engages with the community in developing solutions to plastic waste. They also contribute to the local education system by manufacturing furniture for public schools and cultural centres, fostering a sense of community involvement.
For more information about Fab Lab Livre SP and to explore some successful case studies highlighting their activities, refer to the presentation (below) shared by Raphael Rossato Caetano, Director of Fab Lab Livre SP, at the Fab City Laugh&Learn session, ‘Montréal Fab City Campus meets the Americas 2023’ event, June 2023. The presentation provides valuable insights into the impact and accomplishments of Fab Lab Livre SP in their efforts towards innovation, social inclusion, and sustainable practices.
Visit Fab Lab Livre SP’s website to learn more about their work and discover opportunities for collaboration. Contact them via fablab@prefeitura.sp.gov.br to explore how you can collaborate
