Caracterización físico-geográfica y ambiental del humedal Istmo de Guanahacabibes

This paper is the result of an investigation devoted to evaluate and characterize the actual statement of the natural resources at the geographical region where is located the wetlands on the Istmo of Guanahacabibes. This territory has been used in an unsustainable manner, due to the extensive and intensive exploitation of its natural resources by human and economic activities without a sound environmental management plan. Based on field observations, the use of maps and the participation of a group of experts, and as part of an investigation project that evaluates the challenges of the region to cope with the climate change, this research applied known techniques and methods for the environmental impact assessment that allowed to understand the intensity and characteristics of human impact as well as the effects of economic activities on the main natural resources at this territory which have led to the loss of biodiversity and its potential as a RAMSAR site.