Multiscalar analysis of flooding in urban and rural areas for resilient territorial planning: the case study of Cotopaxi (Ecuador)

Abstract

Flooding in urban and rural areas of the Cotopaxi province is a recurring problem that has had multiple adverse effects on the environment, society, and the economy. This research focuses on the factors involved in pluvial and river flooding at three scales: territorial, urban/rural, and local. Using a mixed-methods approach, supported by qualitative methods and spatial analysis techniques, a multiscale analysis of flooding in urban and rural areas is conducted. This methodology can be extrapolated to other areas with similar characteristics and includes three processes: documentary review and compilation; characterization of the territory through Geographic Information Systems and cartography; and, finally, analysis of regulations and technical instruments for territorial planning. As a result, four macro factors of flooding are described, with the change in land use and cover being the most relevant, affecting the urban/rural scale to a greater extent, making it a key scale in flood risk management. Ultimately, this methodology has enabled identifying the origin of floods according to different scales of analysis and, in addition, establishing specific problems, possible solutions, and competencies to reduce the vulnerability of affected areas.