Acción por el Clima

Research by FICT ESPOL on sustainable pavements was recognized at CSEE 2026, where one of its studies won the Best Paper Award for proposing efficient solutions using recycled materials; the results demonstrate significant reductions in costs and resource use, contributing to innovation in road infrastructure and sustainable development.

ESPOL hosted an orientation session for an environmental consulting firm involved in CAF projects in Guayaquil, bringing together specialists and key stakeholders to define methodologies for environmental and social monitoring and auditing; the event strengthened coordination among the public and private sectors and academia, promoting responsible management of the impacts of civil engineering projects.

Participation in an international course strengthened capabilities in volcanic risk assessment and management, combining technical training, the use of specialized tools, and hands-on learning.

On April 8, 2026, a technical visit was conducted at a banana plantation in Balao to assess the damage caused by the river’s flooding. Researchers from the Center for Research and Applied Projects in Geosciences (CIPAT) and the Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT) collected data in the field and via drone for a preliminary assessment aimed at risk evaluation and technical planning.

ESPOL, through FICT and CIPAT, reviewed an international proposal for the utilization of solid waste in Guayas and Los Ríos, focusing on energy efficiency and the circular economy. The event paved the way for potential collaboration on the development of sustainable solutions based on waste characterization.

FICT-ESPOL participated in a Holcim event focused on the circular economy and decarbonization, where initiatives such as waste co-processing and strategies to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint were presented. This event strengthened the ties between academia and industry on sustainability issues.

ESPOL participated in a study published in Sustainability that proposes a sustainable waste management model for the community of Sahuangal. The research outlines a technically and economically viable composting and recycling system aimed at reducing the environmental impact in rural areas.

Civil engineering students from FICT-ESPOL took fourth place in the 3rd Plastigama Wavin Hydraulic Design Competition, standing out among 40 teams nationwide; their project proposed eco-efficient solutions for water management in rural schools, integrating access to drinking water, wastewater treatment, and green infrastructure with social and environmental benefits.

Joselyne Solórzano’s doctoral research focuses on the vulnerability of the Olón coastal aquifer, examining its behavior in response to environmental pressures and human activities. During a workshop at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, progress on the first scientific article was reviewed, with a focus on strengthening methodological approaches, the interpretation of results, and technical criteria. The study contributes to the understanding of vulnerable water systems and to decision-making for sustainable resource management.

The Agua ESPOL project transforms the Gustavo Galindo campus into a living laboratory for the study of groundwater resources. Using engineering, geophysical, and hydrogeological tools, the team conducts non-invasive research to identify water potential, generate technical data, and strengthen the sustainable management of this resource. The initiative also integrates Water Harvesting and Storage (SyCA) techniques, consolidating a vision that connects science, the local environment, and evidence-based decision-making.