São José dos Campos, in the Paraíba Valley, has stood out for decades as a hub for aviation and technology. Now, this municipality in the interior of São Paulo has achieved an unprecedented feat: ABNT NBR ISO 37125 platinum-level international certification, which places it on the same level as countries such as Switzerland and Norway in terms of quality of life.
The achievement came after a rigorous audit that examined more than 270 indicators in areas such as public transportation, government transparency, and environmental preservation. By meeting all the standards, SJC earned the title of best city in São Paulo for those seeking a balance between technology, sustainability, and safety.
Photo: wtrilhas/Wikimedia Commons
Why does São José dos Campos stand out in terms of quality of life?
The audit process, an initiative of the local city government in collaboration with the Technological Innovation Park, is validated by the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) based on criteria from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The platinum level is the highest on the scale and ensures that the municipality maintains international standards for health, education, and urban infrastructure.
One of the indicators, for example, evaluated investments in clean technology. The implementation of a fleet of electric buses, combined with waste management programs and the expansion of green areas, ensures cleaner air and a healthier daily life for residents and visitors. In addition, the transparency of the municipal government was also highlighted, with digital channels for accountability that increase citizen confidence .
Photo: São José dos Campos City Hall/Press Release
Leisure and cultural options in SJC
How about setting aside a weekend to visit one of the cities with the best quality of lifein the world? São José dos Campos is only 92 kilometers from the capital, about an hour’s drive. On a day trip, you can see for yourself the investments that have raised the municipality to global standards.
Although known for technology, São José also has natural and cultural attractions. The Roberto Burle Marx City Park, for example, covers almost 1 million square meters and is a postcard image of the city. The Brazilian Aerospace Memorial displays historic aircraft and items from the sector.
But that’s just the beginning of what the city has to offer! Check out our complete guide to what to do in São José dos Campos in this article.