Fortalecimiento de la gestión de la Reserva Biológica Cerro Plateado, mediante el diseño del Plan de Comunicación, Educación y Participación Ambiental (CEPA)

Abstract

Abstract: The objective of this study was to design a Communication, Education, and Environmental Participation Plan (CEPA) to strengthen the management of the Cerro Plateado Biological Reserve in the face of growing socio-environmental threats. A qualitative methodology with a descriptive-propositive scope was employed, based on document analysis, participatory workshops, and semi-structured interviews. The study population consisted of 27 key stakeholders, including protected area staff, leaders of Shuar communities and settlers from the buffer zone, educational institutions, local governments, and civil society organizations. The results revealed threats such as illegal mining, agricultural and livestock expansion, selective logging, hunting of wildlife, and human-wildlife conflicts. Based on these findings, a CEPA Plan was designed that defines desired changes aimed at improving community co-responsibility and reducing pressures on the area, integrating operational actions, an estimated budget, and monitoring mechanisms to support decision-making. The CEPA Plan constitutes a strategic tool to strengthen environmental governance and contribute to the sustainability of the reserve's management.