Análisis de la evolución de la deforestación en bosques protegidos y no protegidos. Caso de estudio del sur del Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: Deforestation, a serious environmental issue, impacts biodiversity, climate, and the planet. This study compares processes in dry and cloudy forests in southern Ecuador (2018-2022), evaluating protected areas, causes, and relationships to the problem. Using satellite imagery, vegetation indices, supervised classification, Sankey diagrams, and logistic regression, significant changes in land use were identified. There was an increase in anthropogenic areas and loss in crops, forests, and shrublands. A direct relationship between human activities and deforestation was observed, with the distance to agricultural areas being crucial in dry forests and proximity to roads being more relevant in cloudy forests. The importance of strict regulations and community involvement in sustainable agricultural practices is emphasized. Recommendations include strengthening regulations, conscious planning, and community training for conservation.