Plan de manejo ambiental de la finca Costa Rica, ubicada en el municipio de Zipacón, Cundinamarca

Abstract

The Costa Rica farm, located in the municipality of Zipacón, Cundinamarca, faces a series of environmental challenges that threaten its long-term sustainability and productivity. These challenges include soil erosion, water and soil pollution due to the inadequate management of organic waste (mostly from the pulping of coffee cherries) and honey waters, as well as the lack of technological advancement in composting, vermiculture, and the use of septic tanks instead of a sewage system, all of which can pose potential risks of soil and water contamination in the area. Another identified issue is that part of the flow from the nearby dry river ends up discharging into a sinkhole near the property, which is gradually consuming part of the farm's land. This situation represents a threat to the integrity of the soil and the structural stability of the farm, which in turn could negatively affect crop productivity and the safety of the facilities. These problems compromise not only the integrity of the farm’s natural environment but also the health of its workers and the surrounding community. The proposed methodological process to achieve this objective consists of three fundamental stages. First, a detailed characterization of the farm’s biotic, abiotic, and socioeconomic components will be carried out using tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), direct field observations, and interviews with owners and workers. Then, the activities carried out on the farm were thoroughly described through the collection of documents, structured interviews, and direct observations. Finally, specific environmental measures, a monitoring and follow-up plan, and a contingency plan were proposed, based on the analysis of the collected data and the assessment of potential environmental impacts. The results of this work are expected to lead to the effective implementation of measures that mitigate the identified problems, such as soil erosion, pollution, and inadequate waste management, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the Comprehensive Environmental Management Plan is expected to contribute to strengthening the relationship between the Costa Rica farm and the local community, as well as protecting the natural environment in which it operates.