Conservation and Sustainable Management of the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest: Environmental Challenges and Community Participation

The Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest constitutes one of the most important tropical ecosystems in the world due to its high biodiversity, climate regulation capacity, and provision of essential ecosystem services for local communities and global environmental balance. The present research aimed to analyze the conservation dynamics and sustainable management of the Ecuadorian Amazon, considering community perceptions, predominant economic activities, and the main environmental problems affecting the region. The study was conducted under a quantitative, descriptive, and correlational approach through surveys and direct observation in rural communities located in the Amazonian provinces of Napo, Pastaza, and Orellana. The results showed that agriculture and livestock farming are the main economic activities of the population, generating pressure on forest ecosystems due to the expansion of productive areas and inadequate land-use practices. Likewise, deforestation was identified as the principal environmental problem perceived by local communities, followed by river pollution and forest fires. The research also revealed an intermediate level of knowledge regarding environmental conservation, highlighting the need to strengthen educational programs and community training initiatives. Finally, the study concludes that protecting the Ecuadorian Amazon requires the implementation of sustainable strategies based on community participation, environmental education, and the responsible management of natural resources.