Repercusiones de la actividad minera en el desarrollo socioeconómico del cantón Camilo Ponce Enríquez, periodo 2024-2025

Abstract

This research, titled Repercussions of Mining Activity on the Socioeconomic Development of Camilo Ponce Enríquez Canton, 2024–2025, analyzes the effects caused by mining and the economic, social, and environmental impacts on the area. It is important to highlight that in recent decades, this productive activity has become one of the most prominent in the region in terms of mineral exploitation. However, this economic development has not translated into improvements in the overall quality of life for the local community. It begins by recognizing that mining activity generates significant income for the country; however, it has also produced negative impacts such as climate disruptions, contamination of water sources, exposure to toxic substances, job insecurity, and low community participation in decision-making regarding the use of mining resources. From both quantitative and qualitative perspectives, the research explores the need to adopt strategies that encourage the fair distribution of the benefits generated by this activity, promoting justice, sustainability, and citizen participation. By identifying the various challenges that limit sustainable development in Camilo Ponce Enríquez canton, emphasis is placed on the weakness of oversight in mining activities, the lack of transparency in royalty distribution, and the absence of community spaces that support the active participation of older adults. These conditions have contributed to a negative perception of mining, associating it with practices that prioritize economic development over social well-being and environmental care. A proposal is presented in response to the low participation of residents, through interactive mechanisms that implement collective planning processes and shared responsibility among public institutions such as the municipal GAD, mining companies, and community leaders. This seeks to harmonize economic development with environmental protection and social justice. Additionally, it encourages greater social involvement and citizen empowerment. The research suggests that responsible mining, oriented toward human development, is achievable as long as it is planned jointly with social, political, and economic sectors. This requires social equity and environmental care. Decisions related to the exploitation of mining resources must be made from an inclusive governance perspective, in which the residents of the canton play a leading role in the process. This not only ensures the legality of projects but also fosters community engagement and collective responsibility for well-being. These initiatives must be supported by legal regulations and control mechanisms that safeguard human, labor, and environmental rights. Sustainability must be a guiding principle, promoting economic transformation while also strengthening local capacities. Likewise, investment in education, health, infrastructure, and local entrepreneurship must be considered as foundational pillars of inclusive development that contributes to local progress through the proper use of mining resources in Camilo Ponce Enríquez canton.