System of environmental sustainability indicators for the conservation of Putzalahua hill, Ecuador

Inadequate management of the environment in the paramos can have a negative impact on the efficient use of natural resources. The objective of this study was to develop a system of indicators to evaluate environmental sustainability as a tool to conserve Putzalahua Hill. The methodology used was based on the deductive-inductive method, which made it possible to identify the environmental problem and select the appropriate indicators. The information collected through on-site visits and unstructured interviews with directors of the GAD parish and inhabitants of the communities was complemented using a non-probabilistic sampling. To select the indicators, the PER method was applied: Pressure, to identify the human activities that generate changes in the environment; State, to assess the current situation of the environment and its natural resources; and response, to identify the actions established by the government and the competent entities to address the environmental problem. Agricultural activities, timber extraction and impacts generated by tourism activities were identified as the main pressure factors. 31 indicators were found based on 5 factors and specific strategies and activities were developed to strengthen and guide correct decision making. In conclusion, the indicators system represents a valuable tool to simplify and systematize the information related to environmental problems, and can be used to address different aspects that affect the conservation of natural resources.

• Autor principal: Clavijo Cevallos, Manuel Patricio (author)
• Altres autors: Gutiérrez Toscano, Katy Vanessa (author)
• Format: article
• Idioma: spa
• Publicat: 2023
• Accés en línia: https://revistasespam.espam.edu.ec/index.php/Revista_ESPAMCIENCIA/article/view/359