Participants of the Wellness Congress of the Wellness Fest – Vilcabamba 2025

Talk

Edwin Cantos Sánchez

Spanish

In a global context where uncontrolled urban growth represents a challenge for sustainability, this study presents an innovative methodology that integrates Multi-Criteria Assessment (MCA) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Based on a representative case from a region in Ecuador, the speaker will demonstrate how the application of environmental, accessibility, and constraint criteria—using the Saaty method for weight assignment and evaluating data consistency—allows for the identification of optimal areas for urban expansion. This approach not only optimizes territorial planning but also promotes the integration of multiple factors essential for orderly and equitable growth, minimizing environmental and social conflicts.

Edwin Alberto Cantos Sánchez is an Ecuadorian professional with a solid track record in industrial safety, the environment, geographic information systems, and quality management. He graduated with a degree in Agricultural Engineering from the Agrarian University of Ecuador, earned his Master's degree in Integrated Management Systems from the University of Guayaquil, and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Geographic Information Systems applied to land use planning at Simón Bolívar University in Bolivia.

With extensive experience in teaching, research, and the implementation of management systems in the public and private sectors, Edwin has significantly contributed to sustainable development through process optimization and the application of geospatial tools. His work offers a comprehensive, data-driven perspective to address the challenges of urban expansion, inspiring innovative solutions for territorial planning in a constantly changing world.