Maestría en Sostenibilidad (tesis)
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Ítem Análisis de prefactibilidad para la implementación de una planta de residuos sólidos(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Builes Taborda, María Isabel; Montaño Largo, Paola Andrea; Guerrero Latorre, Jorge HarleyThe municipality of Corinto, Cauca, faces significant challenges in the management of its solid waste, with approximately thirty-one thousand eight hundred and seventy-two inhabitants and a considerable monthly production of urban waste. This waste is deposited in an open dump, which causes environmental damage to the soil, air, and water. Although in the rural area there is some use of organic waste, the lack of environmental awareness and the lack of adequate education contribute to the contamination problem. This degree work focuses on conducting a pre-feasibility analysis for the implementation of a solid waste plant in Corinto, Cauca, with the objective of developing sustainable practices that contribute to the proper management of waste and to the strengthening of environmental conservation in the region. A mixed research methodology will be used, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluate the feasibility of the project. The methodology is adapted to the preinvestment phase and considers technical, regulatory, environmental, and economic aspects of solid waste management. It began with an environmental analysis, followed by a technical study that provided information on project requirements. Legal aspects were also evaluated, as well as possible environmental impacts, proposing measures to mitigate them. Finally, a financial analysis was carried out to evaluate the profitability of the project, using indicators such as the Net Present Value and the Internal Rate of Return. This work seeks to offer an integral solution for solid waste management in Corinto, Cauca, that promotes environmental sustainability and contributes to the integral development of the territory.Ítem Análisis de la contribución de las empresas mineras con operación en Colombia a la biodiversidad(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Giraldo Posada, Ana Margarita; Correa Carmona, María Nathalia; Orjuela Hidalgo, Ana María; Ramírez Soto, Juan DavidThe legal mining sector in Colombia has both direct and indirect impacts on the areas where it operates. Mining companies have developed and implemented various programs focused on biodiversity conservation and preservation; however, these initiatives have not been effectively communicated to stakeholders, limiting recognition of their positive environmental impacts and contributions to ecosystems. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the contribution of mining companies operating in Colombia to biodiversity. To achieve this, a review of the sustainability reports of 11 mining companies operating in Colombia, published over a five-year period (2019–2023), was conducted. This review incorporated international biodiversity standards and the TSM Sustainable Mining Standard adapted for Colombia. Based on the findings, a methodological tool was designed and applied to five companies in the sample. It was then presented through interviews with environmental authorities and industry experts to gather their perspectives on its relevance. The results of this study reveal that mining companies in Colombia undertake actions that not only align with the targets of SDG 15 but also contribute to other SDGs. However, despite their positive impact on biodiversity, these efforts are not adequately visible or communicated. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that biodiversity-related actions are disclosed to all stakeholders through accessible channels, such as management and sustainability reports, so that the sector's efforts and contributions are properly recognized.Ítem Análisis de prefactibilidad para la implementación de una planta de residuos sólidos(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Builes Taborda, María Isabel; Montaño Largo, Paola Andrea; Guerrero Latorre, Jorge HarleyThe municipality of Corinto, Cauca, faces significant challenges in the management of its solid waste, with approximately thirty-one thousand eight hundred and seventy-two inhabitants and a considerable monthly production of urban waste. This waste is deposited in an open dump, which causes environmental damage to the soil, air, and water. Although in the rural area there is some use of organic waste, the lack of environmental awareness and the lack of adequate education contribute to the contamination problem. This degree work focuses on conducting a pre-feasibility analysis for the implementation of a solid waste plant in Corinto, Cauca, with the objective of developing sustainable practices that contribute to the proper management of waste and to the strengthening of environmental conservation in the region. A mixed research methodology will be used, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluate the feasibility of the project. The methodology is adapted to the preinvestment phase and considers technical, regulatory, environmental, and economic aspects of solid waste management. It began with an environmental analysis, followed by a technical study that provided information on project requirements. Legal aspects were also evaluated, as well as possible environmental impacts, proposing measures to mitigate them. Finally, a financial analysis was carried out to evaluate the profitability of the project, using indicators such as the Net Present Value and the Internal Rate of Return. This work seeks to offer an integral solution for solid waste management in Corinto, Cauca, that promotes environmental sustainability and contributes to the integral development of the territory.Ítem Estudio de caso basado en un cierre de mina a nivel nacional, acorde a la realidad, pero con elementos hipotéticos(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Acevedo Mejía, Luisa Alejandra; Álvarez Fandiño, María Isabel; Duarte Acevedo, Luis Enrique; Ramírez Soto, Juan DavidÍtem Recomendaciones para la construcción de negocios sostenibles a mujeres víctimas del conflicto armado colombiano(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Gil Luján, Diana Cecilia; Londoño Zapata, Ana Cristina; George Espinosa, Beatriz Julied; Mesa White, JuanitaÍtem Modelo de economía circular para Mattelsa SAS. Estudio de caso(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Ruiz Obando, Alexandra; Ortiz Pérez, Alvarodiego; Mira Muñoz, Andrea Yinneth; Cadavid Restrepo, Carlos FernandoThe objective of this research is to structure a circular economy model adjusted to the needs of the company Mattelsa S.A.S. It is based on the trend of the textile sector towards the development of circular businesses, seeking to reduce the impacts generated by the inadequate management of post-consumer waste, in a financially profitable and socially responsible manner. Throughout this study, the methodology based on the circular production program proposed by the Cámara de comercio de Medellín and the Socya Foundation (Cámara de comercio de Medellín para Antioquia, s.f) was used; oriented to promote investments in industrial economy businesses. Thus, a gap analysis was conducted, identifying the main circular business opportunities within the organization. From this initial prioritization, the three main ones were selected, developing for each of them the business model canvas under the structure of the Business Model Canvas. Finally, from these, the business model for the extension of the useful life of used garments was chosen. Based on this choice, a reverse logistics chain, some tools for developing an effective marketing strategy, key indicators, a detailed financial analysis formulated through six scenarios, a brief market study and the measurement of the impact of the initiative on sustainable development through the SROI (Social Return on Investment) indicator are proposed. It is important to note that in all the analysis scenarios there was feasibility in terms of both financial and social impact, but to a greater extent in scenarios one and five. As a conclusion, it is proposed that the effectiveness of this business model depends on a solid marketing strategy, which takes advantage of digital tools such as the website, blockchain technology, digital passport and storytelling, in order to promote the return of garments by customers and thereby ensure the availability of reusable material. In addition, it is believed that the development of this model will provide Mattelsa with brand strengthening and differentiation in the market for its commitment to sustainability.Ítem La innovación para la sostenibilidad en seis empresas grandes colombianas pertenecientes al G12(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) Palacios Cardona, Ana Isabel; Mejía Mazo, Luis Felipe; Pérez Rengifo, Carlos Mario; Perilla, Andrés FelipeThis thesis analyzes the relationship between innovation and sustainability in six major Colombian companies that are part of the G12. The G12 is a group of 12 companies convened by Bancolombia to share, learn, and create synergies that accelerate sustainability among the participating organizations. Using a qualitative approach based on interviews with business leaders, key patterns, skills, and methodologies were identified that facilitate the integration of these strategic areas. The findings reveal that, although the connection between innovation and sustainability is emerging, it is not always intentional or structured. However, when these areas are aligned, they generate significant benefits, such as triple-impact solutions, strategy acceleration, and the creation of long-term sustainable value. The study also underscores the importance of leadership, soft skills, and systemic approaches in implementing initiatives, while identifying opportunities to strengthen collaboration within the G12 framework. Finally, recommendations are proposed to overcome existing barriers and enhance the impact of this connection in the Colombian business environment.Ítem Análisis de la vinculación al esquema de pagos por servicios ambientales -PSA-de PYMES en el Oriente antioqueño, como modelo gerencial para la sostenibilidad(Universidad EAFIT, 2025) García Urrea, Jaime Andrés; González Valencia, AlejandroThis research analyzes the connection between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) scheme to promote actions that reduce the impact of human activities. Through the voluntary compensation provided by these companies, the establishment of links with farming communities has been facilitated, where forest conservation is regarded as a cultural activity that also generates income and improves the living conditions of those who protect these ecosystems, which are crucial for regulating water quality and supply. Local management models are identified that contribute to the consolidation and sustainability of payments to the communities that protect these essential resources, while simultaneously preserving farming culture and its practices for forest protection and ecosystem conservation. In this context, the involved companies have implemented an organizational management model that incorporates styles and characteristics aimed at promoting equity toward rural communities as a mechanism of sustainability, integrating it within management practices focused on improving both environmental conditions and the quality of life for farming families who depend on forests and productive systems. This model, driven by SMEs, has enabled the implementation of PES in the areas influenced by their projects by analyzing various environmental, social, and economic structures as a strategy for sustainability and a planning tool, adding significant value to their products, broadening the spectrum of profitability, and benefiting the products and services that these organizations provide.Ítem Alternativas de acción climática adaptadas al contexto del país para las empresas de Colombia(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Soler Arango, Mateo; Betancur Cadavid, Natalia; Jaramillo, MartínThis document conducts an analysis of climate change at the global level, identifying the main actions being taken to combat it. It examines some of the major policies and international agreements, highlighting a predominant focus on mitigation strategies over adaptation strategies. Subsequently, it emphasizes the context of Latin America and specifically Colombia, a country with low contributions to global GHG emissions but highly vulnerable to climate change, and proposes management alternatives for companies.Ítem Análisis prospectivo SROI – estudio aplicado a proyecto de generación de energía renovable(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Moreno Torres, María Paula; Sandoval Parra, Cristian Camilo; Ortega Arango, SantiagoThe path of energy transition under sustainability criteria requires the promotion of projects that involve generation sources from renewable natural resources, as well as the implementation of innovative technologies and the participation of local communities as the main actors in the governance of natural resources within their territories. Traditionally, the analysis of these projects has focused on the contrast between socio-environmental costs and benefits, serving as a tool for decision-making related to their financial viability and socio-environmental performance. Recently, the projection of a theory of change and the estimation of the Social Return on Investment have gained relevance as tools for designing projects aimed at creating social and environmental value in the territories where interventions will take place. In this research, we employ the theory of change and estimate the social return on investment applied to the Renewable Energy Feasibility Project of the Río Ambeima (Tolima, Colombia), whose analysis will be useful in later stages for informed decision-making, periodic monitoring of social value indicators, and continuous improvement in community management processes and socioenvironmental investment. The methodology allowed us to identify four major needs and/or problems to be resolved along with their respective expected outcomes. Considering that this is a prospective model, the SROI analysis was conducted individually and differentiated for the two main stages of the project, covering a total time horizon of fourteen years. Through the determination of five indicators and seven proxies for the valuation of the 4 expected outcomes, the SROI analysis revealed that for every monetary unit invested in the project, two units of social and economic value are generated, demonstrating a significant improvement in the expected change variables.Ítem Economía circular en el manejo de cubiertas plásticas usadas en invernaderos(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Ramírez Mora, Diana Mayerly; Cano Zapata, CatalinaOne of the main axes of the Colombian economy is agriculture. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia, this activity occupies 3% of the national territory; One of the departments that has high horticultural productivity is the department of Cundinamarca, which represents 16% of the country's total production. Agriculture in Cundinamarca is one of the main economic drivers that moves the region, one of the crops grown is tomato, it is managed in a protected manner through greenhouses to improve its performance and production, the second largest agricultural sector. coverage is that of floriculture, where Cundinamarca is responsible for the production of 78% of the country's total flowers. Other types of crops, such as planting ornamental plants, require greenhouses entirely. Depending on the materials that make up a greenhouse, it is estimated that 80% is plastic, represented in the roof and wall construction covers. These covers have a variable useful life, depending on the crop being managed, it can vary between six months and years. , the plastic cover having a maximum approximate life of five to six years to be permanently discarded. The problem of sustainable management of these covers focuses on the efficient practice for managing plastic waste generated by the farmers' union in Cundinamarca. At a global level, a series of methodologies have been implemented and case studies have been carried out regarding the alternatives that have been implemented representing environmental and economic benefits for farmers. This research offers an alternative application of circular economy in the management of covers used in greenhouses, proposing a practical solution that generates synergy in the farmers' union in the department of Cundinamarca.Ítem Innovación de modelo de negocio circular en la industria cosmética : una aproximación desde el design thinking(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) González Londoño, César Arnulfo; Tabares Arroyave, Sabrina Alejandra PatriciaIn the development of this Master's Thesis, an analysis of the innovation process of a circular business model for the cosmetics industry was carried out through the Design Thinking Methodology in 4 stages: empathize, define, ideate, and prototype. With the implementation of this methodology, a value proposition for the consumer of cosmetic products is proposed as a central element for the development of a circular business model for a company in the cosmetic sector in Medellín, Colombia. The scope of this research is to propose a circular business model that seeks to generate solutions to the challenge of reducing and making more efficient the management of plastic waste in the cosmetics industry. As a central part of the business innovation model, through the use of the Design Thinking methodology, surveys were carried out with 26 consumers of cosmetic products, resulting in the generation of circular solutions that imply a differentiated use of the plastic packaging of the cosmetic products of the company analyzed. During this research process, a group of experts on sustainability issues also participated. This research offers solutions from the business model to the use of waste; generating contributions to SDG 12: Responsible Production and Consumption in targets 12.4, 12.5 and 12.6 set out by the UN.Ítem Guía de implementación para el diseño y comunicación de la estrategia sostenible para pequeñas y medianas empresas en Colombia(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Mesa Jaramillo, Natalia; Henao Alarcón, Mariana; Salazar Quintero, María ClaraThis study was born out of the needs of SMEs in Colombia to place sustainability at the center of their strategy. For this reason, a practical methodology was developed so that small and medium-sized enterprises in the country can design and communicate their sustainable strategies, responding to environmental and market trends. This serves as a competitive advantage, allowing them to respond to environmental and market trends and needs, accelerate their involvement in sustainability conversations, face challenges and opportunities to grow their business lines with sustainability aspects, improve productivity, as well as meet current and future requirements from authorities, regulators, or other stakeholders, and make decisions considering their sustainable strategy. This methodology can also be implemented by large companies interested in the development of some of their stakeholders, such as suppliers, business partners, customers, and strategic allies or joint ventures. The methodology used to carry out this study was based on bibliographic consultation and systematic literature review on the current barriers that SMEs face in designing and implementing their sustainable strategies, the topics that are most important for this type of company around sustainability, and the tools available in the environment. With the collected inputs, the methodology was constructed, which was validated by sustainability experts through structured interviews.Ítem Evaluación de los impactos sociales, ambientales y económicos del sistema de bicicletas públicas - EnCicla en la ciudad de Medellín a través de un análisis multicriterio(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Daza Olivella, Diana Marcela; Ríos Rodríguez, Carlos Andrés; González Valencia, AlejandroÍtem Retos y oportunidades en el proceso de ganadería sostenible del Grupo Nutresa(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Grajales Vásquez, Alison Tatiana; Romero Hernández, Laura Daniela; Castaño Betancur, Nancy Janeth; Collazos Acosta, María del PilarGood Livestock Practices (GLP) play a crucial role in advancing Nutresa Group responsible sourcing objectives, especially within the integrated purchasing model of the meat business. This model involves agreements with suppliers for managing cattle from raising to delivery. To foster the adoption of GLP and promote more sustainable sourcing practices, a price incentive program has been introduced. This initiative enables cattle suppliers to boost their annual income by participating in the program Despite these incentives and the multiple benefits of implementing sustainable actions, significant gaps persist in the adoption of these practices. Furthermore, suppliers lack motivation to engage in this purpose, which we investigated through a qualitative analysis of semi-structured surveys involving various stakeholders in this context: farmers, farm coordinators from Nutresa Group, certifying entities, and associations. Given these challenges, the motivation for this research is to identify the enablers, opportunities, and critical points in the certification process, aiming to contribute to the consolidation of a local and sustainable supply chain aligned with the organization's strategy towards its stakeholders. Likewise, it is expected to contribute to the literature by integrating two components that have not been extensively developed together: the livestock sector and a successful cooperative sourcing model like Nutresa's, providing a reference point for future studies aimed at sector development. Thus, it is acknowledged that the absence of clear and rigorous regulation, the capacity of the certifying entity, the relationship among the actors involved and the challenges related to understanding the requirements and advantages of sustainable livestock farming processes and the economic resources available to materialize the certification process, lead suppliers to maintain conventional practices. Because even without certification, they can continue to be allies of the meat business, since it is intended that this is a gradual process and accompaniment beyond a requirement, therefore consolidating a virtuous cycle for the organization and its stakeholders, representing benefits in the different sustainability dimensions. In spite of the opportunities in this process, the roadmap established by the Meat Business for developing its suppliers has become a benchmark for the sector and other companies in creating stakeholder value, fostering more resilient supply chains to meet current and future socio-environmental challenges.Ítem Retos y oportunidades para el desarrollo del pago por servicios ambientales en la provincia de Cartama(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) López Betancur, Sebastián; Sierra Vásquez, Sebastián; Gutiérrez Rúa, Juliana MaríaIn the development of this research, an exploration and analysis of Payment for Environmental Services (PES) is conducted as a potential tool to promote ecosystem conservation in the Cartama Province. Based on its location, regional importance, and ecosystem diversity, the Province could implement this mechanism. Starting from a literature review and the analysis of international references and enabling regulations in Colombia, criteria were established for the development of PES. This information was subsequently analyzed in the context of Cartama and validated through interviews with local stakeholders. The research results propose challenges and opportunities that can be considered when implementing PES in the Cartama Province, contributing to current discussions on sustainable development models for the territory. Additionally, a guide is proposed to facilitate practical measurement of the social return on investment for the three main stakeholder groups in PES development: communities, companies, and government.Ítem Evaluación y cuantificación del impacto social en proyectos WASH de agua potable en Colombia : caso Aquavida(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Caro Garcia, Mónica María; Ospina Restrepo, Paola Andrea; Carrero Rivera, Diana MarcelaEnsuring sustainable and equitable access to water and sanitation is a global concern, which is reflected in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6. Globally, progress in access to safe drinking water services is notable but insufficient. It is expected that by 2030 only 81% of the world's population will have access to safe drinking water in their homes. Colombia is part of this challenge; In the year 2023, it is reported that 25% of the country's population has inadequate access to drinking water service, with rural areas being the most affected. The programs developed by non-governmental organizations become relevant in this context, as is the case of Aquavida of the Grupo Argos Foundation, through the delivery of clay filters for purification to families in remote areas of the country. To validate the social impact of this program, we took surveys and interviews from a sample of the beneficiary population in the 8 departments of Colombia to estimate, from a multivariate model, the relationship between the use of the clay filter and the possible reduction in illnesses and reduction of expenses at home. The evidence allows us to infer that WASH programs, such as clay filters in populations with a lack of access and water quality, show benefits in terms of social impact and an increase in economic savings; on the other hand, they allow us infer that there is a weak relationship between the perception of water quality and the reduction of diseases. On the other hand, a significant relationship is observed between economic savings in families due to reduced expenses for purchasing water or purchasing gas/electricity and the good use and condition of the clay filter, added to a positive perception of the water in the filter, being families with incomes less than 0.4 SMMLV. who experience a greater positive impact in reducing expenses. This allows us to infer that the good use of the filter generates a good perception in families of having drinking water for consumption, therefore this condition allows generating economic savings by avoiding the purchase of bagged or bottled water or the purchase of gas or electricity.Ítem Implicaciones de aplicar estrategias de sostenibilidad en empresas medianas del sector agroindustrial(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Quiceno Cadavid, María Alejandra; Meneses Avella, Andrés Julián; Mesa White, JuanitaThe adoption of sustainable practices at the corporate level is a fundamental pillar for the development and long-term success of productive activities. In agriculture and agroindustry, these practices gain significant relevance, as these activities play an important role in the food supply chain, provide employment to more than one billion people, and generate more than $1.3 billion in food annually, according to the WWF (World Wildlife Fund). Globally, the urgency to address the climate crisis and consumer demands, driven by growing environmental awareness and challenges, constantly pushes the sector to maintain a state of continuous improvement and adopt sustainable approaches in its practices. Considering this, this document aims, through a case study, to diagnose the reality of medium- sized agricultural/agroindustrial companies in Colombia. Using qualitative interviews and content analysis, we will explore how the implementation of sustainable practices is reflected in the company's environmental, social, economic, or corporate governance development. Additionally, we will identify the benefits these strategies bring to operational efficiency, the quality of life of their employees, the well-being of local communities, and the environment. Specifically in Colombia, acquiring knowledge and experience to implement and manage sustainability programs is prioritized. Due to their characteristics, medium-sized agroindustrial companies have the resources and the purpose of expanding into new markets but lack the implementation of these systems or do not have their strategies properly documented to measure and communicate them. In conclusion, this study proposes, through a diagnosis and improvement plan based on a business case study, to identify the intersection between corporate responsibility, environmental management, and innovation in the agricultural and agroindustrial sector. The goal is to deeply understand the challenges and benefits linked to the transition towards sustainability and contribute to strategic decision-making in this sector, under the premise that sustainability is not an option but a necessity and the key to generating value and business survival.Ítem Mujeres, agricultura y paz : un estudio sobre el empoderamiento en Montes de María(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Montoya Giraldo , Viviana Patricia; Gómez Taboada, Sonia Rosa; Ramírez Morales, Jorge Enrique; Zapata Giraldo, ValeriaIn the region of Montes de María, marked by armed conflict and agrarian challenges, rural women face difficulties that limit their participation and empowerment in agriculture, affecting their economic autonomy and contributing to the perpetuation of gender inequalities. Thus, this study aimed to identify and analyze the factors driving the empowerment of rural women in Montes de María in agriculture and evaluate how this empowerment significantly contributes to their economic independence and peacebuilding in their communities. Mixed research methods were employed for data collection in the field through focus groups, with data being qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed to delve into the perceptions and experiences of rural women regarding agriculture and empowerment. Additionally, information was cross-referenced with relevant scientific literature to enrich the context and understanding of the findings. The results show a significant advancement in community-led processes by rural women, indicating a conscious understanding of their active role in family and society. However, challenges ranging from climatic vulnerabilities affecting their food and economic security to barriers in land access and entrenched patriarchal structures in society were identified, limiting their ability to fully exercise their empowerment. The study concludes with a set of recommendations advocating for strengthening policies on land restitution, access and titling, promoting technical training tailored to the needs of rural women, fostering leadership in agricultural projects, facilitating organization and association, improving access to markets, and addressing gender-based violence. These proposed actions have the potential to generate a positive impact on the lives of rural women, promoting their economic autonomy and strengthening their participation in decision-making to contribute to sustainable peace in the region.Ítem Estrategia para la reducción de la huella de carbono corporativa de la Universidad EAFIT(Universidad EAFIT, 2024) Atencio Álvarez, Angélica María; Rozo León, Lina Marcela; Martínez Londoño, Edgar Alberto