Valoración económica-ambiental de productos forestales no maderables del bosque seco en el cantón Zapotillo, provincia de Loja

Abstract

Abstract:Non-timber forest products are important because when used sustainably they provide ecosystem services and are considered an economic alternative for the local population. Therefore, the economic and environmental valuation of NTFPs in the dry forest of Zapotillo County was analyzed by reviewing previous studies of NTFPs in the area, interviewing environmental authorities and conducting surveys of the inhabitants. Based on the results of the research, the feasibility of production and marketing of carob (Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC.) was analyzed, as it is the NTFP species that has the highest level of significant use in the area. The purpose of the titling work is to provide the Zapotillo canton with a sustainable economic alternative to generate income from the production and commercialization of carob (Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC.) without causing an environmental imbalance, since the carob (pod or fruit) would be used for sale. Because of the significant income from the production and marketing of carob, it is feasible in Zapotillo County as a complementary activity to others in the area.