Research on the environmental problems of the Leuven River

Committed to sustainability and the generation of scientific knowledge, UMECIT advances institutional research titled "Environmental problems in the Lovaina River due to the extraction of rock material for the construction of the Soná-Pixvae highway", led by the teacher Mailyn Cáceres, research professor at the Santiago campus.

The Leuven River, located in the district of Soná, province of Veraguas, is an ecosystem of great importance to local communities. However, the extraction of rock material has raised environmental concerns that require detailed analysis. In this context, the research team, comprised of Professor Cáceres and a group of students, conducted a field visit to examine the alterations in the area, identify impacts on biodiversity, and propose sustainable solutions for its environmental management.

As part of the investigative process, the following were carried out: meetings with community members, with the goal of presenting the project, sharing the study's objectives, and learning about residents' concerns. This approach strengthened the bond between the university and the community, ensuring that the study considered the needs and perspectives of those living in the region.

This research responds to current environmental challenges and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to the sustainable water management (SDG 6), the climate action (SDG 13) and the protection of terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 15).

With this study, UMECIT reaffirms its commitment to scientific research and its active role in finding solutions to local problems., contributing to the sustainable development of the Veraguas region and the well-being of its communities.