Lineamientos estratégicos de renaturalización de puntos críticos de residuos sólidos en el casco urbano del municipio de Fusagasugá

Abstract

This research aimed to establish renaturalization strategies to address solid waste critical points in the urban area of Fusagasugá. The study stems from recognizing the issue surrounding the generation of critical points caused by multiple factors, which arise from an accelerated urbanization process that has degraded the ecological structure and reduced essential ecosystem services in the territory. This research was guided by a mixed-methods, descriptive, and propositional methodology, which included geospatial mapping and surveys as primary data collection methods. Through these, key determining factors were identified, such as the lack of civic culture and deficiencies in the waste collection service. Simultaneously, the methodology gathered potential solutions, which were framed under the Nature-based Solutions (NbS) approach to transform pollution hotspots into functional green spaces for Fusagasugá's citizens, such as recreational areas, parks, and urban facilities integrated into the local context. The results emphasized that the viability of these interventions depends on a participatory governance model and shared responsibility between the municipal administration and the community. This ensures these measures remain sustainable over time and prevents the sporadic emergence of new waste critical points. Furthermore, it was determined that degradation processes are driven by 33% construction and demolition waste and 33% contaminated expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) disposables. The areas of highest criticality were located in the Luxemburgo, Olaya, Manuela Beltrán, and Balmoral neighborhoods, as well as along the Quebrajacho road. Based on these results, strategic guidelines were established to mitigate these prioritized points, and a program encompassing three dimensions—environmental, social, and institutional—was formulated to enhance environmental and landscape quality while boosting residents' sense of belonging. Ultimately, this proposal serves as an environmental and managerial governance tool that can be replicated in other urban areas across the department of Cundinamarca.