Urban expansion and environmental shifts impact Guatemala and Venezuela

Urban expansion and environmental changes are impacting biodiversity and ecosystems in Guatemala and Venezuela. In Guatemala, the growth of real estate and infrastructure projects is placing increasing pressure on urban forests and green spaces. Hugo Berreondo, president of Biciudad, noted that horizontal developments in city peripheries require large land areas, leading to forest clearing, while vertical projects often prioritize construction over ecosystem conservation.

Berreondo also highlighted that urban development models centered on automobiles consume significant space for circulation and parking, often at the expense of green areas. He pointed to a lack of territorial planning and municipal budgets that favor vehicular infrastructure over the recovery of ravines, bike paths, and parks.

In the Los Altos region of Venezuela, unusual temperature increases and droughts have been observed. While climate change and El Niño effects are cited as significant factors, local deforestation, land movement, and the construction of large multi-family residential complexes have also contributed to the environmental shift in the mountainous area.