Análisis de los componentes de comunicación, educación y participación ambiental en los planes de manejo de áreas protegidas y otras figuras de conservación registradas en la provincia de Santa Elena

Abstract

Abstract: The communication, education, and environmental participation components of the CEPA plans are fundamental instruments for the management of protected areas and other conservation areas, contributing to raising awareness, knowledge, and social co-responsibility for the conservation of natural resources. This study aimed to analyze the incorporation of the CEPA components in the management plans of protected areas and their equivalent in the forest management plans of protected and conservation areas in the province of Santa Elena, using a documentary methodology with a qualitative approach. Based on the systematic review of the plans, the results showed a weak incorporation of CEPA components in the management plan of protected areas, with the Education and Participation component having the fewest proposed actions. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen these components, prioritizing Environmental Education for the sustainable management and conservation of natural resources. Likewise, it was identified that, in forest management plans, Participation describes a greater number of actions, while those corresponding to Environmental Education are limited, making it necessary to strengthen them for proper forest management.