Evaluación del impacto ambiental de actividades Agrícolas del sector "el shuyo" de la ciudad de Riobamba

Abstract

Agriculture, although it draws development and employment, causes environmental problems such as salinization, deforestation, and pollution due to inadequate practices such as overgrazing and lack of crop rotation. This study evaluated the environmental impact of agricultural activities at "El Shuyo" in Riobamba city. Descriptive research with a mixed approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected from 27 selected farmers, using techniques such as field data collection, surveys, and documentary analysis. The Leopold Matrix analysis examined 36 interactions with a total impact score of -126, reflecting 30 negative and 6 positive impacts. The results reveal a slight environmental impact, highlighting the deterioration of water and soil. Actions such as "pest control" and "inorganic waste management" have negative impacts, while "employment generation" shows a moderate positive effect. The Importance Matrix indicates that most impacts are moderate, emphasizing the need for mitigation and balance between development and conservation. In response, an environmental management plan was designed with two key sub-plans: one to prevent and mitigate impacts and the other to manage the waste generated. These sub-plans seek to ensure responsible agricultural practices, reducing environmental impact and maintaining acceptable levels of sustainability.