Co-design of a Nature-Based Solutions Ecosystem for Reactivating a Peri-Urban District in Quito, Ecuador

Abstract

In Quito, climate change has shifted average temperatures, increased flooding during the rainy season, and intensified fires during the dry season. The city of Quito is committed to reducing its emissions at a 5% annual rate until 2025. For this purpose, Quito has developed specific plans like the “Vision 2040” and the “Resilience Strategy.” The present paper results from an award-winning proposal to the “Mi barrio ejemplar y sostenible” [My exemplary and sustainable neighborhood] urban competition and is based on developing the “Vision 2040” for San Enrique de Velasco, a typical peri-urban district of Quito. This proposal was developed considering a co-design process using both traditional methodologies and an innovative tool based on collaborative urbanism. Against a deprived and segregated district, where the lack of green areas and access to nature is now affecting the daily life of residents, the proposal considers using nature-based solutions (NBS) as a main driver for rehabilitating pride and a cohesive spirit among neighbors, developing the local economy, recovering the important natural assets of the area, solving issues like stormwater management and lack of comfort in public areas with ecological means, and developing a new landscape.