Diseño de un laboratorio vivo para la carrera de Ingeniería Ambiental de la Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Campus Sur, Quito

Abstract

This research proposes the design of a living laboratory for the Environmental Engineering course at the Salesian Polytechnic University, South Campus, Quito, which was carried out maintaining several guidelines, both academic and social, because in recent decades, environmental engineering has undergone a marked change towards more sustainable and solution-oriented approaches to global environmental problems. Thus, the design of a living laboratory for the course has emerged as an innovative and effective tool that can combine theory with practice, allowing students and researchers to explore and solve environmental problems in real environments. The present study focuses on the creation of a dynamic and sustainable experimental environment that simulates real environmental conditions, enabling applied research and the analysis of practical solutions to contemporary and future environmental challenges. The proposed living lab integrates several practices, which are within the curriculum of the degree programme, thus creating a space where solutions for efficient natural resource management, pollution mitigation and innovation of sustainable practices can be studied and applied. This innovative approach not only provides a unique research platform, but also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration by involving students, teachers and researchers from various disciplines in solving concrete environmental problems.