Ecuadorian city connects green spaces to improve wellbeing
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In Loja, Ecuador, a city of 200,000 people has connected over 600 hectares of green spaces through a project called the Urban Green System.
A decade ago, many of these areas were avoided due to insecurity and neglect, but now over 32 kilometers of trails receive daily use by residents of all ages.
Alberto José Rodríguez Fierreo, Director of Environmental Management for the Municipality of Loja, explained the system is a “network of interconnected parks, green corridors, avenues with massive vegetation, squares and bike paths” intended to build a more resilient and environmentally compatible city. Before the Urban Green System, Loja had only 6.22 square meters of green space per resident, below the 9 square meters recommended by the World Health Organization.
The new system includes urban parks, protective forests, and ecological corridors linked by trails, addressing both environmental and social needs. Restoring riverbanks reduced seasonal flooding, increased tree cover cooled urban areas, and researchers identified 18 new species of amphibians and plants. Residents report improved physical activity and emotional wellbeing, with safer pathways for children and shaded routes for seniors.
The system is now part of Loja’s official planning documents and serves as a model for other Ecuadorian cities like Cuenca, Riobamba, and Ambato. The project originated as a technical proposal from the Technical University of Loja and demonstrates how planning can prioritize nature as essential urban infrastructure.
