Proyecto de Grado: Ecoparque Sostenible (Edward y Taliana) PDF

# Implementación de un Ecoparque Sostenible en compañía de los actores sociales y académicos mediante el uso de materiales no biodegradables como mecanismo de recuperación de recursos naturales en Los Bellos, María La Baja, Bolívar ## **Autores** - Edward Yesid Salcedo Meriño - Velkis Taliana Cast...

# Implementación de un Ecoparque Sostenible en compañía de los actores sociales y académicos mediante el uso de materiales no biodegradables como mecanismo de recuperación de recursos naturales en Los Bellos, María La Baja, Bolívar ## **Autores** - Edward Yesid Salcedo Meriño - Velkis Taliana Castellano Sierra - Jan Carlos Muñoz Cáceres ## **Institución** - Institución etnoeducativa técnica agropecuaria de desarrollo rural - María La Baja (Bolívar) - 2024 ## **Contenido** - **Planteamiento del problema** - Descripción del problema - Pregunta problema - **Justificación** - **Objetivos** - Objetivo general - Objetivos específicos - **Marco de referencia** - Antecedentes - Marco teórico - Marco legal - Marco contextual - Marco conceptual - **Metodología** - Tipo de investigación - Técnicas de recolección de datos - Tipo población y muestra - Análisis de información - **Cronograma** - **Presupuesto** - **Actividades integradoras** ## **Introducción** The project entitled "Implementation of a Sustainable Ecopark in company with social and academic actors through the use of non-biodegradable materials as a resource recovery mechanism in Los Bellos, María La Baja, Bolívar", arises as a response to the growing problem of contamination and the underutilization of natural spaces in the region. Despite having a natural environment of great beauty and ecological value, alarming environmental deterioration has been evidenced. This deterioration is driven by a lack of awareness and environmental education within the local community. The main objective of this project is the creation of an ecopark that serves not only as a recreational and educational space but also promotes the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. Through the active collaboration of social and academic actors, the project aims to implement strategies that foster community participation in the management and care of the environment. The integration of non-biodegradable materials, such as tires, offers an innovative solution for resource recovery and the creation of sustainable infrastructure. This project is significant due to its potential to generate a positive change in the environmental awareness of the community, as well as improving the quality of life for its residents. By engaging students, teachers, and community members in environmental education and conservation activities, the aim is for the ecopark to become a replicable model in other regions of the country to help combat pollution and environmental degradation. ## **Planteamiento del problema** The Los Bellos area in Maria La Baja, Bolivar, is a place with natural spaces of great beauty and aesthetic value. However, there is a worrying misuse of these spaces and a growing contamination that threatens their preservation. The problem stems from a lack of awareness and care on the part of the local community, with many of these spaces being used improperly as satellite landfills, generating negative impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity. - **The lack of environmental education** limits the community's ability to care for natural resources. - **The contamination of natural spaces** is a critical problem. The presence of garbage, solid waste, and toxic waste in natural areas seriously impacts the ecosystems and endangers the health of flora, fauna, and the people who inhabit the area. It is essential to promote environmental education, awareness, and the importance of preserving and protecting natural spaces. Strategies should also be implemented to prevent the misuse and contamination of these areas. - **Community participation** in the management and care of natural spaces should be encouraged. This involves establishing partnerships with government institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private companies to perform cleaning, restoration, and the construction of suitable infrastructure. - **Visitor observations** confirm that approximately 80% of the patio space in the institution is underutilized, leaving few areas for safe use. Children are especially affected as they are forced to explore the surrounding areas during breaks which poses a risk to their safety. The creation of an ecopark should seek to address the problems of pollution and the underutilization of natural resources. ## **Pregunta problema** *Could the creation of an ecopark at the Retiro Nuevo Etnoeducativa school in the Los Bellos area help in reducing environmental pollution and the misuse of resources, with the collaboration of the main social actors?* ## **Justificación** The importance of this project lies in raising community awareness of environmental education. This problem is not new; it is a matter that spans generations, and it is essential to educate people of all ages to refrain from polluting natural resources while fostering sustainable practices. The ecopark offers benefits in the short and long term. The community benefits from the ecopark but also gains valuable knowledge about how to care for the environment and the positive impact of environmental protection in preserving natural resources. This knowledge will be shared with future generations. The selection of this project is driven by the environmental crisis in the institution and its long-term negative impact on the formation of new generations. It represents an excellent opportunity to bring about a positive change in the protection of the environment. Failure to implement this project would have negative consequences such as the loss of biodiversity, environmental degradation, and a lack of environmental awareness. Taking steps to protect, restore natural spaces and promote environmental education is vital.. ## **Objetivos** ### **Objetivo general** - Implement an ecopark in collaboration with social and academic actors, using non-biodegradable materials as a resource recovery mechanism, in the Los Bellos area of Maria La Baja. ### **Objetivos específicos** - Develop educational campaigns that encourage students from the institution to take an interest in caring for the environment. - Establish an ecopark as a protection mechanism dedicated to the conservation and utilization of natural resources. - Use non-biodegradable materials like tires and plastic bottles, and natural materials such as ornamental and medicinal plants within the ecopark construction in a way that teaches students how to reuse waste materials and develop a relationship with the natural environment. - Build relationships with governmental and municipal entities to strengthen conservation activities. ## **Marco de referencia** ### **4.1 Antecedentes** The projects listed below are considered relevant to the current investigation: - **"Adaptation of parks with recycled tires."** This project was carried out by Maria Alejandra Serrano in 2015 in Bogota D.C. The project sought to adapt five parks, incorporating recreation areas and elements made from recycled tires, in the Teusaquillo locality. The conclusions of the project highlighted the importance of identifying project stakeholders and their needs, evaluating the project's impact, and taking steps to mitigate potential risks through a contingency plan. The duration of the project can be determined through a variety of techniques such as expert judgment, simulations, and previous experiences. It is recommended to use resources efficiently and monitor their performance. - **"Design of a Reverse Logistics Model for Used Tires in Barranquilla."** This project was carried out by Luisa Fernanda Rodriguez Rivero and Natalya Patricia Leguía Zambrano in 2017 in Barranquilla. Its objective was to develop a reverse logistics model for the collection of used tires in the city of Barranquilla, minimizing environmental impact. The conclusion of the project highlighted that, although tire recycling in Barranquilla was not a widely studied area, the implementation of regulations in 2016 for the proper management and final disposal of tires, which require tire producers, importers, tire shops, and companies that discard tires to work with the only company dedicated to tire recycling, contributed to solutions. Using the results of fieldwork, a reverse logistics model was developed using linear programming, demonstrating that recycling tires is more environmentally and economically feasible than discarding them. ### **4.2 Marco teórico** - What is pollution? [Fundacion Aquae, 2020, March 4] “Pollution is a change in the environment that negatively impacts living things. These impacts depend on the pollutants and affected ecosystems.” - Environmental pollution is a major challenge and, as we all know, its consequences are harmful to ecosystems. - According to the research, “Environmental Crisis in Colombia” [Universidad Central], “The fact that we are a green country does not mean we are environmentally friendly. Plastic waste and deliberate deforestation are some of the problems that affect the ecosystem.” - Every day, Colombian households produce an average of 4.5 kg of garbage. The capital city alone disposes of 6,300 tons of waste, and a large percentage of it is not recycled. - “It is true that Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, which is why we must care for the environment. However, waste is being discarded improperly, resulting in environmental degradation which affects Colombian flora and fauna.” - “In schools we can also see pollution, often due to a lack of information and awareness, as indicated in El Colegio: Causes, Consequences and Solutions You Should Know. ” The report states, “Also, the lack of environmental awareness on the part of schoolchildren and the absence of sustainable practices can also trigger environmental pollution. These factors not only affect the school itself but also negatively impact the health and well-being of students and staff.” - Air pollution in school settings can also significantly affect the health of students, teachers, and staff. Exposure to high levels of pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and fine particles can contribute to respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies.” - “The lack of awareness is one of the main factors contributing to the causes of environmental pollution in educational institutions. As such, it is crucial to implement measures that guarantee a healthy environment,” according to Energíanatural.one (January 11, 2024). “It is essential that measures are taken to reduce pollution in the school environment, since the well-being of students is fundamental to an optimal learning environment.” - The report states, “Environmental education plays an important role in raising awareness of the need to preserve the environment and prevent pollution. By understanding the impact of our actions, a change in behavior toward more sustainable practices is encouraged. Environmental education programs that promote natural resource conservation and pollution reduction are essential to creating a cleaner, healthier future for future generations.” - “Environmental education benefits both individuals and the planet. It promotes a positive and collective commitment to environmental protection. By understanding the factors that contribute to pollution and its impact on the ecosystem, individuals are better equipped to make informed and responsible decisions in their daily lives. Environmental education also promotes environmentally friendly policies and practices in businesses, leading to a significant reduction in emissions and pollution.” - For the fight against pollution, school communities play a crucial role. They play a critical role in educating students. - “It is also essential to involve parents, teachers, and administrative staff in sustainability projects, which helps raise awareness and promote environmentally friendly practices.” - "When responsibility and commitment are instilled at a young age, a solid foundation is laid for a more aware and sustainable future. Collective action within school communities can significantly reduce pollution by adopting respectful attitudes toward the planet. It is essential that every member of the school community recognizes their role in environmental protection and actively seeks solutions.” - Key issues such as a lack of awareness among students, as well as the consequences that pollution can have in schools, need to be addressed. To implement sustainable practices, the participation of all members of the school community is crucial to promoting a more environmentally aware future and reducing pollution. - [Buenos aires.gov.ar, 2016]: “An ecopark is a space dedicated to the promotion of environmental education through recreational and educational experiences. It also promotes respect for architectural heritage and species rehabilitation.” - "Ecoparks can have a very positive impact on the environment and the local community," according to encanto.com.ar "Ecoparks are important for the environment. These green spaces host many animal and plant species, contributing to biodiversity in our area. Furthermore, ecoparks contribute to reducing air and water pollution, and they maintain the ecological balance of our planet." ### **4.3 Marco legal** - **Article 79 of the Colombian Constitution** (1991) states that: “Every person has the right to enjoy a healthy environment. The law will guarantee community participation in decisions that may affect it.” - **Article 80 of the Colombian Constitution** (1991) states that: "The State will plan the management and use of natural resources to ensure their sustainable development, conservation, restoration, or replacement. In addition, it must prevent and control the factors that deteriorate the environment, impose legal sanctions, and demand compensation for damages.” - **Article 8 of the Colombian Constitution** (1991) states: “ It establishes the obligation of the State and individuals to conserve national natural and cultural resources.” - **Article 95 of the Colombian Constitution** (1991) states that: “It establishes the duty of individuals to protect the country's natural and cultural resources and to ensure a healthy environment.” - **Article 2 of Law 1549 of 2012.** “Access to environmental education." All individuals have the right and the responsibility to actively participate in environmental education processes. This includes acquiring the knowledge, concepts, and skills to individually and collectively approach the sustainable management of their environmental realities through an ethical framework that emphasizes valuing and respecting the environment. ### **4.4 Marco contextual** - Maria La Baja is one of the 1,103 municipalities of Colombia, located in the Bolivar department. Its economic activities are diverse thanks to an abundance of water and fertile lands. Important economic activities in the area include fishing, agriculture, and livestock farming, generating significant income. - The area boasts a strong cultural heritage. It is home to a traditional sung dance known as *bullerengue*. The *bullerengue* festival is held on December 8th, attracting groups, foreigners, and other individuals to experience the cultural diversity of Maria La Baja, generating income for the municipality. - Like any other municipality, Maria La Baja faces social and environmental challenges. - **Social challenges** include: Early pregnancy, drug addiction, and crime. - **Environmental challenges** include: a lack of awareness, pollution of water, soil, and land, and the improper management of solid waste and satellite landfills. - **Los Bellos**, located 30 minutes from Maria La Baja, is a municipality primarily centered on agriculture and livestock farming. The community is known for its friendly and resilient population. Despite the challenges they face, the people are always optimistic and enjoy dancing. Los Bellos also faces social and environmental problems. - **Social challenges** include: Early pregnancy, drug addiction, and domestic violence. - **Environmental challenges**: A lack of awareness, pollution of water, soil, and land, and the improper management of solid waste and satellite landfills. - Despite the challenges, Los Bellos is a thriving municipality with a strong sense of community and a pride in their customs. ### **4.5 Marco conceptual** - **Ecopark:** An ecopark is a protected natural area specifically designed for environmental conservation. Its main purpose is to protect biodiversity, restore damaged ecosystems, and offer visitors an educational and recreational experience that values nature. - **Non-biodegradable materials:** These materials cannot be broken down naturally in the environment or take hundreds or thousands of years to do so. - **Environment:** This refers to the set of natural and man-made elements that surround living things and influence their development and survival. - **Natural resources:** These are resources provided by nature that are used by humans for consumption or in the production process. - **Tires:** are one of the components of a car wheel. - **Pollution:** Pollution occurs when substances or elements enter a given environment that do not naturally belong there and negatively affect the ecosystem's balance. - **Social actors:** Social actors are individuals or institutions with a specific relationship to the community, such as a particular neighborhood or group. - **Renewable resources:** These are natural resources that can be replenished through natural processes at a rate exceeding human consumption. - **Satellite landfills:** Satellite landfills are areas where waste is disposed of, particularly outside designated landfills. ## **Metodología** ### **5.1 Tipo de investigación** - **Participatory action research** or PAR is considered a family of research methodologies (action research, learning action, etc.) that seek to achieve both action and results through research. This is achieved through the participation of community members in the research process, transforming them from "subjects" to "participants". - **Participatory Action Research** distinguishes itself from more traditional research methods like market research, which focuses on observing interventions from an external perspective. PAR aims to address the need for informed involvement in solving social and organizational problems, promoting community empowerment. - PAR is a valuable tool for improving how we learn and how we address social and environmental challenges. ### **5.2 Técnicas de recolección de datos** - **Consult with collective memory** is a method used for retrieving, analyzing, and understanding a community’s collective memory. This memory comprises shared experiences that a society or group has about its past. These memories are transmitted across generations through narratives, symbols, cultural practices, and monuments. - **Characteristics of the method:** - Data collection: This includes gathering testimonies, oral accounts, historical documents, cultural artifacts, and other evidence that reflect the community's experiences and perceptions about past events. - Active community participation: This involves community members sharing their memories and insights to build a comprehensive and representative narrative. - Critical analysis: This involves examining the narratives for patterns and contradictions, exploring how power, politics, and culture have influenced these memories, as well as how they may have been shaped or manipulated for specific purposes. - Understanding how collective memory is expressed: This includes recognizing the mediums that express this memory, like monuments, literary works, traditions, etc., and how these are transmitted to future generations. - Combining approaches: The approach often combines techniques from different disciplines—like history, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies— to develop a holistic understanding of collective memory. ### **5.3 Tipo Población y muestra** - The target population is the rural community of Los Bellos in Maria La Baja, Bolívar. - The sample includes community leaders and student leaders. ### **5.4 Análisis de information** - **Survey questions** were designed to gather information to better understand the community's knowledge of the ecopark concept and their awareness of the environmental concerns in their area. | **QUESTIONS** | **OPCIONES DE RESPUESTAS** | **SI** | **NO** | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|-------|-------| | **¿Sabe usted que es un ecoparque?** | ----|-------|-------| | **¿Considera usted que la acumulación de materiales no biodegradables en educational institutions is a serious problem in Maria La Baja, Bolívar?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you think the Ecopark could be an effective solution for recovering the area's natural resources?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you believe that the participation of social actors is essential for the success of the ecopark?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you think that the implementation of the ecopark could lead to conflict among different social actors?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you think the local community is willing to actively participate in the care and maintenance of the ecopark?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you agree that recovering natural resources is crucial to the community's quality of life?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Could the ecopark be a replicable model in other regions of the country?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you think environmental education and awareness are key to the success of the ecopark?** | ----|-------|-------| | **Do you think the deterioration of the environment in the area needs to be addressed urgently?** | ----|-------|-------| - The survey results are presented visually in the next page. - The survey responses reveal a high level of awareness in regards to environmental concerns and support for the ecopark initiative. ## **Cronograma** This table outlines the proposed timeline for the project development. | **Actividad** | **Objectives** | **Resources** | **Responsables** | **Fecha** | **Observation** | |-----------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------|----------------|----------------------------| | **Selection of the topic** | Choosing the topic for the | Internet research | Project group | March 2024 | | | | investigation | | | | | | | based on the student's | Ask teachers | | | | | | area of expertise | | | | | | **Problem statement** | Identifying the existing | Observations | Project group | April 2024 | | | | problem | Photographs | | | | | | | Visits | | | | | **Collecting information** | Expanding the knowledge | Documents | Project group | May - June | | | | on the topic | | | 2024 | | | | | | | | | | **Collecting information from ** | Gathering information | Internet research | Project group | May 2024 | | | **Secondary sources and surveys** | directly from the | Surveying and | | | | | | community | photograph collection | | | | | **Socialization of the project "Ecoparque” with the community** | Informing the community | Refreshments | Project group | July 2024 | | | | about the project execution | Photographs | | | | | | | | | | | | **Campaign to raise awareness "Ways of caring for the environment"** | Raising awareness among | Refreshments | Project group | July 2024 | | | | children, young people, | Materials | | | | | | and adults on how to care | Educational materials | | | | | | for the environment | | | | | | **Workshop on management** | Communicating and | Materials | Project group | August 2024 | | | |informing about the | | | | | | | overall importance of | Educational materials | | | | | |solid waste management and | Refreshments | | | | | | integrated solid waste | Photographs | | | | | |management | | | | | | **Adapting the impact area of the ecopark** | Assessing the designated | Work tools | Project group | August 2024 | | | | area and implementing the | Refreshment | | | | | | project | | | | | | **Collection and material processing** | Collecting materials that will | Photographs | Project group | September | | | | be used in the project | Human talent | | 2024 | | | **Construction of the Ecopark (Phase 1)** | Constructing the | Work tools | Project group | October 2024 | | | | ecopark as a | Refreshment | | | | | | mechanism for the | | | | | | | utilization and | | | | | | | conservation of | | | | | | | green areas | | | | | ## **Presupuesto** This table outlines the estimated budget for the project, organized by material, quantity, unit cost, and total cost. | **MATERIALES** | **CANTIDAD** | **VALOR UNITARIO** | **VALOR TOTAL** | |--------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------|----------------------|-----------------| | **Cookies** | 60 | 400$ | 24,000$ | | **Rondalla** | 60 | 400$ | 24,000$ | | **Juice** | 90 | 500$ | 45,000$ | | **Cheese bread** | 30 | 500$ | 12,000$ | | **Large brown sugar** | 2 | 2,000$ | 4,000$ | | **Activity copies** | 10 | 300$ | 3,000$ | | **Kite paper** | 5 | 400$ | 2,000$ | | **Cardboard** | 5 | 2,000$ | 10,000$ | | **Transportation** | 8 | 10,000$ | 80,000$ | | **Transportation (instructor)** | 2 | 10,000$ | 20,000$ | | **Copies of survey documents** | 20 | 200$ | 5,000$ | | **Bag of garbage packs** | 1 | 3,000$ | 3,000$ | | **Half-gallon of red paint** | 1 | 35,000$ | 35,000$ | | **Half-gallon of green paint** | 1 | 35,000$ | 35,000$ | | **Half-gallon of oil paint (green)** | 1 | 35,000$ | 35,000$ | | **Half-gallon of light blue paint** | 1 | 35,000$ | 35,000$ | | **Half-gallon of oil paint (yellow)** | 1 | 35,000$ | 35,000$ | | **Thinner (per liter)** | 2 | 10,000$ | 20,000$ | | **Medium paintbrushes** | 3 | 5,000$ | 15,000$ | | **Large paintbrushes** | 4 | 13,000$ | 52,000$ | | **Lime bags** | 1 1/2 | 48,000$ | 72,000$ | | **Blue Paint #1 ** | 1/2 | 24,000$ | 24,000$ | | **White Paint** | 4 | 2,000$ | 8,000$ | | **Crushed rock bags** | 1/2 | 170,000$ | 85,000$ | | **Cement bags** | 1/2 | 36,000$ | 18,000$ | | **Oil-based white paint (per quart)** | 1/4 | 70,000$ | 5,000$ | | **Informational pamphlets ** | 20 | 500$ | 10,000$ | | **Creative display** | 1 | 30,000$ | 30,000$ | | **Model** | 1 | 20,000$ | 20,000$ | | **Final project printing (per page)** | 55 | 1,000$ | 55,000$ | | **Total** | | | **812,000**$ | ## **Actividades integradoras** - **Activity #1:** The "Ecopark Project Socialization" activity aimed at informing community members about the project's execution and development. The goal was to show the community how the project would transform educational areas into interactive ecological environments, promoting environmental education and respect for the environment. The benefits of the ecopark for the community and for the educational institutions, both for student learning and community well-being, were also discussed. The activity also included topics related to environmental awareness and integration. - **Activity #2:** The "Ways of caring for the environment" awareness campaign focused on educating children, young people, and adults about the importance of protecting the natural environment. The aim was to present simple and practical actions that individuals can implement in their daily lives to contribute to environmental care, such as recycling, responsible water use, and reducing waste. Through workshops, talks, and interactive activities, the goal was to foster a more conscious and responsible attitude toward the planet. Participants engaged in a group activity using hula hoops to encourage teamwork in the environmental care of the community. This was followed by an educational discussion about ways to protect the environment. The group then used crafting materials to create visuals demonstrating the importance of a healthy environment. - **Activity #3:** The activity "Adapting the ecopark impact area" involved preparing and adapting the designated area for the ecopark implementation. This included cleaning, restoring, and improving the land to ensure the area was suitable for the installation of infrastructure and natural elements. The aim was to create a safe and sustainable environment that promoted educational interaction and respect for the environment. - **Activity #4:** The "Project Final Touches" activity focused on finishing the ecopark design, ensuring that every detail reflected an appreciation for environmental values. The activity involved community members and students from local educational institutions. The group engaged in painting and beautification efforts, and the participants were given the opportunity to create areas for recreation and education through landscaping and planting native plants and establishing small vegetable gardens. The emphasis was placed on fostering biodiversity and learning about the local flora. ## **Conclusion y recomendaciones** The implementation of the Sustainable Ecopark in the Los Bellos, María La Baja, Bolívar area presents a comprehensive solution addressing community shortcomings in the areas of resource misuse and pollution. It encourages environmental awareness, especially among young people, and promotes a greater appreciation for the existing natural beauty. The project recognizes the misuse of natural spaces as landfills, the lack of environmental education, and the growing contamination affecting the community. It proposes the ecopark as a solution to these problems, promoting collaboration with social and academic actors. The need to conserve the natural environment, and the environmental crisis affecting the region, reinforce the need for the ecopark’s implementation. Community engagement is essential to the project’s success, and survey results demonstrate a high level of community members’ willingness to participate and care for the ecopark. The "Ecopark" project has proven to be a significant success in improving the ecological environment of the Los Bellos community in the Maria La Baja municipality. Through collaborative efforts between community members and academic actors, the project has transformed a previously unused area into one that both promotes environmental conservation and provides a space for recreation and education. The project has included impactful educational campaigns that have successfully increased environmental awareness and engagement among local residents, especially young people. The use of interactive activities and games has helped foster a greater appreciation for the importance of protecting the environment. This has led to increased participation of students in environmental conservation practices, and it has encouraged them to implement sustainable practices at home. - It is recommended to collect tires and other materials early on if the project is to be replicated elsewhere to facilitate its implementation. - It is also recommended that students plan in advance to ensure the completion of the project in a timely manner. The “The implementation of the Sustainable Ecopark” project is a positive step towards constructing a more sustainable and aware community.