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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Recurso digital |
| Language: | Spanish |
| Published: |
Zenodo
2018
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15610034 |
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Table of Contents:
- <p>This chapter explores the environmental, social, and hydrological consequences of Colombia’s armed conflict on the Puerto Boyacá aquifer, a vital water source for the municipality of Puerto Boyacá in the Middle Magdalena Valley. The region, characterized by its flat geography, numerous sub-basins, and economic reliance on oil extraction and agriculture, has historically depended on groundwater extracted from the Mesa Formation (Tsm) aquifer system. The annual water extraction surpasses the estimated recharge, making the aquifer highly vulnerable to depletion—especially in the context of ongoing climate change and unregulated usage, including illegal wells and irrigation for illicit crops.</p> <p>Puerto Boyacá’s sociopolitical history is deeply entangled with Colombia’s armed conflict. From the 1970s onwards, it became a central arena for guerrilla and paramilitary activity, eventually labeled the "anti-subversive capital" of the country. Factors such as the absence of the state, land disputes, and the narcotics economy fueled the conflict in this area. The environmental impacts of armed confrontations—including bombings, landmine deployment, and deforestation caused by coca plantations and eradication efforts—have damaged ecosystems and threatened the aquifer’s sustainability.</p> <p>The chapter presents statistics showing that although Boyacá has a relatively low number of conflict victims compared to other departments, Puerto Boyacá alone accounts for over 10% of the department’s conflict-related victims. Environmental degradation is framed as a silent victim of war, particularly through contamination of water sources, biodiversity loss, and deforestation. Notably, 87% of illicit crops are located in conflict zones, and 42% of national parks have been affected—jeopardizing water availability for up to 20 million Colombians.</p> <p>Using the IVAFIC model (a qualitative environmental impact assessment matrix), the authors argue that environmental indicators such as water quality and access to clean groundwater are strongly correlated with security, equity, and sustainable land use. They emphasize that in municipalities like Puerto Boyacá, peacebuilding efforts must include environmental restoration and equitable access to natural resources.</p> <p>In terms of post-conflict strategies, the chapter acknowledges some initiatives—such as the creation of a local reconciliation park and rural support programs—but also points out that Puerto Boyacá has not been included among the 125 municipalities prioritized in the national peace agreement. Furthermore, it has not signed any agreements under the National Program for the Substitution of Illicit Crops.</p> <p>The authors conclude that although direct damage to the aquifer from armed conflict is difficult to trace, the accumulation of socio-environmental pressures over decades poses a significant threat. They call for sustainable land management, reforestation, effective groundwater monitoring, and inclusive governance in post-conflict planning. These actions are crucial not only for safeguarding water resources but also for ensuring the long-term resilience and peace of communities recovering from prolonged violence.</p>