Analysis of the impacts of deforestation on the banks of the Mocho River and its influence on the environmental vulnerability of the La Aurora neighborhood, Urumita – La Guajira

Abstract

The overall objective of this study is to analyze the environmental and social impacts of deforestation on the banks of the Mocho River as it flows through the La Aurora neighborhood in Urumita, La Guajira, in order to propose strategies for ecological restoration and sustainable environmental management. The central problem lies in the progressive deterioration of the waterways, the decrease in flow, and the pollution of the tributary, aggravated by the lack of environmental awareness and the inadequate disposal of waste by the community.

The research is project-based, aimed at offering practical solutions to this environmental problem. It adopts a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative), which allows for both an in-depth characterization of the phenomenon and the quantification of its effects. Data collection techniques include direct observation (with a structured guide and photographic records), the use of surveys and semi-structured interviews with the population, and field visits to identify influencing factors. Subsequently, qualitative and quantitative data are analyzed using software such as Excel.

As a projected conclusion (based on the hypothesis), it is expected to confirm that the loss of vegetation cover has generated direct impacts such as soil erosion, decreased biodiversity, and water pollution, increasing the environmental vulnerability of the sector. Therefore, the study will culminate in the proposal of a comprehensive action plan that integrates vegetation restoration, environmental education, and active community participation as fundamental axes to mitigate these negative effects in the long term.