Percepción y opinión pública sobre ambiente y sociedad en la cabecera del cantón Catamayo

Abstract

Abstract: Environmental perception and public opinion are essential elements to understand the relationship between society and the environment. This study analyzes the perception and opinion of citizens of the cantonal capital of Catamayo, province of Loja, on environmental issues such as water, environment, quality of life, equity, markets and citizen participation. A quantitative research was carried out through surveys of 379 citizens and a comparative analysis to identify changes in perception and opinion with a study carried out five years ago. The results reveal a moderate perception of the environmental situation and low citizen participation in environmental issues. Respondents perceive that water quality remains the same, they have a high level of knowledge about the nutritional traffic light and they assure that it is not easy to find employment in the city. Regarding participation and democracy, most know about this power, but they are not part of any group, organization or social oversight. It is concluded that it is necessary to strengthen environmental education and promote citizen participation to improve environmental perception and management in Catamayo.