Territorial Planning Strategies and Land Use and Management Plan (PUGS) of Guano Canton

Abstract

This study evaluates the alignment of the Development and Territorial Planning Plan (PDOT) and the Land Use and Management Plan (PUGS) of Guano canton, Ecuador, with international frameworks—such as the 2030 Agenda (SDG 11) and the New Urban Agenda—and national regulations like COOTAD and LOOTUGS. Employing a mixed methodological approach, the research combines a qualitative documentary analysis of planning policies with a quantitative comparative evaluation matrix to assess territorial sustainability, land management, and urban resilience. The results reveal progress in integrating sustainability criteria but highlight critical challenges. In the biophysical and human settlement sectors, Guano faces unplanned, low-density urban sprawl characterized by two-floor buildings, which hinders infrastructure delivery. Specifically, 45.20% of properties in the San Gabriel sector lack functional sewerage connections, and 32.30% in the Langos sectors lack drinking water. Economically, private property subdivisions are rapidly reducing productive agricultural land. Conversely, the canton's social component shows significant strength through its cultural heritage and connection to the UNESCO-recognized Tungurahua Volcano Geopark. Institutionally, local ordinances exhibit weaknesses in controlling irregular land occupation and protecting green zones. The study concludes that Guano must transition from its current dispersed growth dynamic toward a compact city model to optimize public resources and preserve its rural landscape. Finally, while the canton faces clear limitations in fully achieving SDG 6 (Clean water and sanitation), SDG 8, and SDG 9, its current planning instruments show dedicated efforts toward fulfilling SDGs 11, 12, and 13.