Fortalecimiento de la gestión territorial del Parque Nacional Sangay Zona Alta mediante el diseño de un Plan de Comunicación, Educación, Participación Ambiental (CEPA).

Abstract

Abstract: The research aimed to strengthen territorial management of Sangay Zona Alta National Park by designing an Environmental Communication, Education, and Participation (CEPA) plan. To this end, a needs assessment of the park was conducted to identify stakeholders, threats, and actions to be implemented in the areas of environmental communication, education, and participation. This was achieved through semi-structured interviews and workshops with representatives of educational institutions, tourism operators, and communities. The information was analyzed with park staff, and the threats that can be addressed based on the guidelines established for the plan were identified. Three desired changes were identified for the identified threats: strengthening environmental awareness, adequate solid waste management, and inclusive conservation of the scenic beauty of the sites visited. To this end, the development of projects and training sessions aimed at implementing organic gardens, waste management, and environmental interpretation is proposed. This is done with a participatory, community-based, and environmental approach that fosters responsible values, attitudes, and behaviors toward the natural resources of Sangay National Park.