Tourism and Agro-Silvopastoral Systems as Alternatives to Counteract Climate Change Case: Guasaganda and Pucayacu Province of Cotopaxi–Ecuador
摘要
This study presents a proposal that combines tourism and agro-silvopastoral systems applied in the parishes of Guasaganda and Pucayacu, in the province of Cotopaxi (Ecuador), with the aim of meeting the needs of the population and contributing to the development of sustainable strategies that not only serve to counteract climate change but also to adequately manage natural resources, agriculture, and rural tourism. A review of literature related to climate change, sustainable actions, agro-silvopastoral systems, and agrotourism was carried out, and successful experiences in countries such as Italy, Colombia, and Costa Rica were also cited. By applying participatory methodologies, such as community mapping and interviews, it was possible to identify the main needs and perceptions of the inhabitants of the two parishes, which are summarized in two proposals that are complementary; the design of an agrotourism route and the application of agro-silvopastoral systems along the route. These two proposals constitute actions whose objective is to fight against climate change and contribute to sustainable development, being one of the best examples in the province of Cotopaxi and that could be applied in other sectors of Ecuador.