Applying the COM-B Behavioral Model to Strengthen Sustainable Land Management and Health in High Andean Communities in Ecuador

High Andean communities in Salinas, Ecuador (3,650–4,200 masl) are part of a strategic páramo ecosystem for water
recharge, but face rural poverty (89.2% with unmet basic needs), land degradation from intensive cattle raising and
agriculture, chronic child undernutrition close to 39%, and adolescent pregnancy. The “Health and Páramo” project assumes that improved health practices can reinforce sustainable land and water management.
Within the broader LDN (Land Degradation Nautrality) Ecuador project (2021–2026), led by the Ministry of Environment and
implemented by FAO with CONDESAN as executing partner, CONDESAN and De Waal Foundation are implementing a health
promotion in 5 communities of Salinas, Bolívar. This initiative strengthens the capacities of 136 local leaders, with particular attention to women and youth, and supports the design of 5 small socio-productive projects. Using the COM-B methodology, the project analyzes behaviors and determinants related to tourism, healthy food consum ption, sexual and reproductive health, water source protection, and ultimately seeks to generate practical recommendations and a replicable co-creation model for healthier, more sustainable Andean landscapes.