Environmental Injustice in Guayaquil: An Analysis of Policies and Informal Settlements in a City that is Socially Resilient

Abstract

Mangroves are an essential ecosystem that helps prevent climate change. Examining the history of Guayaquil, we can observe that the historian Ycaza once stated, “Guayaquil is nothing more than a mangrove with the appearance of a city.” Tracing old maps in GIS and delving into the city’s history, we find maps depicting the former locations of mangroves. Informal settlements in Guayaquil have contributed to the deforestation of mangroves and the disappearance of estuaries. Despite the constitution recognizing inalienable rights to nature, thereby establishing it as a subject of law, deforestation of ecosystems is still occurring in Guayaquil. Although policies have attempted to prevent this, they have proven ineffective. A troubling cycle persists, where individuals claim land and later seek government legalization to make the area habitable. This cycle is both expensive and environmentally detrimental. This thesis examines the patterns of deforestation and formalization of settlements, challenging urban planners and designers to implement strategies for affordable housing at various scales and advocate for alternative models.