Diseño de un sistema de gestión ambiental para la reserva biológica limoncocha, cantón shushufindi, parroquia limoncocha

Abstract

This curricular integration research project was carried out with the objective for designing an Environmental Management System (EMS) model as a proposal for Administration at Limoncocha Biological Reserve (LBR), Shushufindi canton, Limoncocha parish; it was through documentary research and field research. An environmental review was performed to collect data that allows determining the Environmental Diagnosis. Based on this analysis, the environmental aspects and impacts generated from activities and processes that take place at LBR and buffer zone were identified and evaluated. For this purpose, surveys were applied to inhabitants from Limoncocha parish and administrative personnel at Limoncocha Biological Reserve, water analysis in six strategic points from lake and a qualitative evaluation methodology through an Interactions Matrix and a Modified Leopold Matrix, which were identified ten environmental aspects and eighty significant impacts. Based on this analysis, it was developed an environmental policy proposal, focused on preventing pollution and complying with legislation. Finally, an environmental management manual was prepared and adapted to the needs of reserve, detailing the procedures and programs related to the requirements were established by LBR. It was concluded that, EMS is a viable mechanism for development activities, considering risk management, prevention, and minimization of environmental impacts. It is recommended to take corrective measures to minimize the effects of anthropogenic activities at LBR ecosystems, performing monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of these actions, and promoting research for conservation purposes.