Propuesta de estrategias de movilidad sostenible para el geoparque volcán Tungurahua

Abstract

The present study aims to develop sustainable mobility strategies that contribute to the progress on the Tungurahua Volcano Geopark and its five cantons involved in the area. The study was developed through field data collection, using techniques such as observation that allowed describing the characteristics of the 25 geosites, road infrastructure and information signaling through the application of an observation sheet in the main roads of the area. In addition, interception mobility surveys were developed, which were directed to national and foreign tourists that visit the tourist attractions of the Geopark. As a result, the Tungurahua Volcano Geopark is characterized by the high demand of national tourists and only 16% of foreign tourists; in terms of mobility patterns, it was determined that more than 81% of trips are done on their own and generally in private vehicles and only 22% are carried out by public transportation; In terms of road infrastructure, asphalt predominates in 19 of the 25 main roads, there are no sidewalks, there are no bicycle paths in 23 geosites, and the 9 trails analyzed do not have the width or adequate condition determined by the law on trails. Based on these findings, it was concluded that the lack of information and forms of mobilization to this tourist destination increases the problem and reduces tourism demand. It is necessary to apply sustainable mobility strategies aimed at improving accessibility, focused on sustainability and grouped in different guidelines such as tourist facilities, planning of road infrastructure, strengthening public transportation, development of tourist transportation and design of non-motorized transportation networks. It is recommended that this research can be considered for the development of future sustainable mobility projects in tourist environments.