Socio-environmental Study and Ecological Footprint in the Mixtec Community of El Calvario

Resumen

Subject: Currently, it is very difficult for communities to receive funding for their development, as they often lack efficient evaluations or significant impact to support such funding. Therefore, it is vitally important for research to help make these communities visible by applying instruments that describe their situation. In this sense, two of the most important tools are the socio-environmental diagnosis and the ecological footprint, which are rarely determined in various communities.

Methodology: To determine this, Likert-type surveys and interviews with key stakeholders were conducted to identify areas for improvement within the community.

Results: The most relevant findings were the need to pave the road leading to the community, which hinders marketing and increases the cost of its products and/or the residents' labor. Another issue is the management, disposal, and elimination of waste. The greatest waste identified is the bagasse from agave, which must be valorized. Additionally, efficient water collection systems are needed, and finally, there is a lack of medicines and an available family doctor.

 Implications: As a result of this study, various strategies are proposed to provide continuity to the areas of opportunity identified in the El Calvario community.

Conclusions: It is important to listen to the community's context so that they become the promoters of change, without harming the environment and nature.