Ecological Park with a Sustainable Approach for the Revaluation of the Cultural and Historical Landscape of Pueblo Libre, Peru—2023

Abstract

Lack of green spaces, citizen insecurity, and crime are the primary issues afflicting the Pueblo Libre district. This research aims to propose public spaces that revalue the cultural and historical landscape of Pueblo Libre. The methodology involves a literature review, urban analysis, and climate analysis, incorporating sustainability strategies supported by digital tools (AutoCAD, Revit, and Sketch-Up). The resulting design features an ecological park with vegetation capable of capturing carbon and emitting oxygen, absorbing up to 3544.99 kg of CO₂ annually. It also includes installing 26 solar-powered lights to illuminate necessary spaces efficiently and using eco-friendly materials. Additionally, the park incorporates an artificial wetland with a capacity to process 38,500 L of water using plants that remove toxic elements and capture nutrients. In conclusion, the ecological park seeks to revalue the cultural landscape and counteract environmental degradation by creating a green lung that purifies the air, fosters social connectivity, and integrates users with nature, enhancing their quality of life.

1. Introduction

The urgent need to redefine and revitalize the cultural and historical landscape arises when history and modernity converge, inspiring an initiative that seeks to forge a deep connection between nature and the community’s cultural heritage. This call to action materializes through the establishment of spaces such as ecological parks, which integrate biodiversity into daily life as a carefully planned ecosystem [1]. These spaces serve as sanctuaries for local flora and fauna while also acting as hubs for cultural and social activities. They are enriched by the historical layers that imbue the community’s identity [2].

In

Table 1. Comparative table of projects.

Factors	‘Voices for the Climate’ Ecological Park	Bicentennial Park—Miraflores	St. Jacques Ecological Park
Social Factor	Promotes awareness and active participation of society in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation [6].	It is a public space accessible to everyone, which promotes social inclusion by providing a place for recreation [7].	It actively involves residents, allowing them to contribute to the planning and development of the green space [5].
Economic Factor	Attracts tourists interested in ecotourism and environmental education [6].	Attracts visitors who wish to enjoy the natural beauty [7].	Creation of jobs related to the planning, construction, and maintenance of the park [5].
Environmental Factor	Conservation of the environment through environmental education, the promotion of sustainable practices, and the protection of natural resources [6].	It provides habitats for local wildlife and contributes to the conservation of pollinators [7].	Creation of a cane field for the phytoremediation of runoff water [5].

, a comparison is made between the “Voces por el Clima” Ecological Park, the Bicentennial Park in Miraflores, and the St. Jacques Ecological Park, all of which share a comprehensive approach that encompasses social, economic, and environmental aspects. These parks foster community participation and social inclusion while generating economic benefits through ecotourism and job creation. Environmentally, they contribute to biodiversity conservation and implement innovative practices, such as environmental education, pollinator protection, and phytoremediation of water, thus solidifying their role as key spaces for urban sustainability [3,4,5].

In this context, the ecological park emerges as a model of a sustainable approach, seeking a harmonious balance between humanity and nature. Every design and construction decision is guided by environmental and social responsibility, without compromising cultural diversity and historical heritage [8]. Moreover, the revitalization of cultural and historical landscapes is intertwined with the park’s mission, respecting and celebrating the elements that define the city’s identity, transforming it into a space where the community reconnects with its roots, preserving its patrimonial wealth and sustainability [9].

This vision becomes even more relevant when considering the insufficiency of green spaces in Peru. On a national level, the average is recorded at 2.1 m² of green spaces per inhabitant. At the departmental level, Moquegua stands out with the highest proportion of green areas per person at 3.8 m², followed by the province of Lima and the department of Tacna, both with 3.7 m² per inhabitant. Lima has only 1.76% green areas in proportion to its total surface area, which places it well below the average for Latin America [10]. These figures serve as evidence, as only 8 of the 43 districts that make up Metropolitan Lima have 9 m² of green space per inhabitant. These districts include the following: San Bartolo, Chorrillos, La Molina, Ancón, Miraflores, San Borja, San Isidro, and Santa María del Mar [11].

Currently, Pueblo Libre is fully urbanized over an area of 462 hectares, where the buildings and urban equipment stand out, along with the social, political, and economic dynamics that characterize a city experiencing rapid growth [12]. However, in response to the imminent increase in urbanization and concerns about the decline in quality of life in Pueblo Libre, an approach toward urban sustainability has been promoted. In this context, compact cities with high population densities are prioritizing the creation of green spaces as a fundamental component to encourage interaction among residents. The rapid growth of cities without adequate planning has led to insufficient development of green areas, negatively affecting the quality of life of its inhabitants [4].

Figure 1a,b reveals the presence of garbage dumps, the lack of trees and green areas, and the absence of green energy initiatives or infrastructures, such as bike lanes [13]. This scenario contrasts with the district’s information, as it has a total area of 30.8 hectares of green spaces, which represents 6.6% of the total area. Of this total, 4.89 hectares correspond to berms, roundabouts, triangles, and gardens, while the remaining 25.95 hectares correspond to parks, squares, promenades, and boulevards [14]. The district’s approximate population is 90,000 inhabitants; however, the existing green area index is 3.42 m² per inhabitant, a figure that is nearly one-third of the 9 m² per inhabitant minimum recommended by the WHO (World Health Organization) [15].

In Figure 1c, the green areas corresponding to parks, squares, promenades, and boulevards in the district of Pueblo Libre are shown [16]. However, this visual representation takes on greater significance after analysis, as the presence of these green areas does not effectively address the lack of spaces that promote the value of local biodiversity or provide play areas focused on early childhood, older adults, and/or people with disabilities [17].

This lack of adequate spaces for recreation and contact with nature contrasts with the cultural and historical value of the district of Pueblo Libre. This district is recognized not only for its architectural heritage but also for its wealth of museums and historical sites. Among its main attractions are two of the most important museums in Latin America: the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru, and the Larco Museum, both renowned for their impressive collections and contributions to the understanding of the pre-Hispanic and republican past of the country [18,19]. Furthermore, the district stands out for the Plaza de los Libertadores, the Municipal Palace, the Mateo Salado Archaeological Complex, and its traditional streets, which evoke the historical and cultural legacy of the region [20].

However, the district’s current population, 83,323 inhabitants [21], is not adequately served by the available cultural facilities [22]. Specifically, the municipal library faces limitations in its public infrastructure, as it is unable to meet the current demand, with a larger percentage of adult users [23]. This gap between the growing population and the existing cultural infrastructure highlights the urgent need to improve cultural resources in the district, as reflected in

Table 2. Relationship of the population by age and gender in the district of Pueblo Libre.

Ages	Male	Female	Total
0–14	6340	6341	12,681
15–64	22,735	28,046	50,781
65+	4190	6512	10,702
Total	33,265	40,899	74,164

.

Over the past five years, insecurity in Pueblo Libre has increased by 30% from January to July of this year, leaving the population increasingly vulnerable [24]. Figure 2 illustrates the relationship between Pueblo Libre and its social insecurity problems. The areas with the highest incidence of crimes (aggravated robberies, thefts, etc.) are located in Jr. Valle Riestra–Acevedo and Jaime Herrera. Additionally, the drug problem is concentrated in existing parks. The least illuminated areas include Antunez de Mayolo, Salamanca, and Parque Colmenares. In this sector, there is a lack of proper signage, particularly in Valle Riestra and Salamanca [25].

Pueblo Libre is not considered a business and service hub, as the main centers for such activities are in the districts of San Miguel and Jesús María. This is due to the limited space available in Pueblo Libre to develop large-scale shopping centers [26]. However, the district has significant potential in its historical and monumental area, which could be leveraged to develop cultural industries and recreational spaces that connect both local and international visitors [27].

This research aims to propose the design of an ecological park with a sustainable approach for the revaluation of the cultural and historical landscape of Pueblo Libre.

2. Methodology

2.1. Methodological Scheme

The issue was studied through an analysis of the environment and study site, resulting in the collection of data that was later used to generate a response to the problems identified in the study area, as illustrated in Figure 3.

2.2. Place of Study

Pueblo Libre, as shown in Figure 4, is located in the heart of the province of Lima, Peru, is bordered to the north by San Miguel and Magdalena del Mar, to the east by Jesús María, to the south by Breña, and to the west by San Isidro. The district covers a total area of 462.30 hectares and is situated at an elevation of 96 m above sea level. Its coordinates are latitude: −12.0783 and longitude: −77.0625 [28].

2.3. Climatology

Pueblo Libre, like most of Lima, experiences a mild desert climate known as subtropical arid. This climate is characterized by moderate temperatures throughout the year, with minimal rainfall, making it typical of Lima’s coastal region. The scarcity of precipitation and relatively consistent temperatures are defining features of this climate, contributing to the dry and warm conditions common in the area [29], as illustrated in Figure 5.

The average maximum temperature in Pueblo Libre can reach 26.1 °C, while the average minimum is 14.7 °C. The relative humidity fluctuates between 63% and 94% throughout the year. Monthly precipitation ranges from 0.5 mm to 2.9 mm, and wind orientation is from the southwest to the northeast, reaching speeds up to 2 m/s [30].

2.4. Flora and Fauna

Pueblo Libre, with its mild desert climate, hosts a variety of flora that has adapted to its arid environment. The natural vegetation is sparse, but certain species have developed unique mechanisms to survive in this harsh climate. The district’s urban setting influences the diversity of its fauna, where some wild species have managed to adapt to urban conditions. Despite urbanization limiting certain wildlife, various animals have been able to thrive in this environment. The balance between nature and urbanization continues to shape the district’s ecosystem.

Figure 6 illustrates the botanical diversity of Pueblo Libre, highlighting species such as begonia, casuarina, molle costeño, molle serrano, mulberry, ombú, nettle, paper mulberry, tecoma, and the iconic Amancaes flower [31]. Unfortunately, the latter is currently endangered due to urban expansion in Lima and increasing pollution. The Amancaes flower, a member of the Amaryllidaceae family, is endemic to the coastal hills of Peru, meaning it is native to this specific region and represents a unique species in need of protection [32].

In contrast, Figure 7 illustrates the diverse fauna inhabiting Pueblo Libre. It highlights various species, with birds being the dominant group in the ecosystem, such as the mosquero cardenal, turtupilin melánico, paloma de castilla, gallinazo, cuculí, hummingbird, and the chirigue azafranado. In addition to the birds, the region hosts a wide variety of insects, including butterflies, dragonflies, and bees, which play essential roles in local ecological processes, such as pollination and nutrient cycling [33].

3. Results

3.1. Project Location

The chosen site for this project is located in the Pueblo Libre district of Lima, where the Cuartel Bolívar is currently situated. This area offers a unique context for the development of an ecological park, integrating the historical and cultural significance of the location with the goal of enhancing urban sustainability and public space.

Figure 8 provides a view of the surrounding streets of the site, specifically Antonio Polo Street and Jr. Santiago Wagner. The site measures 132 × 65 m, totaling an area of 7647 m². The topography of the study area is primarily flat, without excessive slopes. The significance of the surrounding green spaces is highlighted by the site’s proximity to two key parks: the Parque 3 de Octubre and the Pueblo Libre Skateplaza. Additionally, the Plaza de los Libertadores is located nearby. The presence of these green spaces underscores the importance of the concept of a “green lung” in this area.

Figure 9 provides a more detailed view of the urban context of Pueblo Libre, highlighting key roads such as Avenida Dulanto, Avenida San Martín, and Avenida Bolívar. It also locates important nearby landmarks, such as the Plaza de la Bandera, the Museo Larco, and the Iglesia Santa María Magdalena. The site is surrounded by residential areas and various educational, religious, and cultural facilities, with the Museo Nacional de Arqueología being one of the most significant nearby landmarks.

Additionally, Figure 9 includes distance radii of 1 km, 1.5 km, 2 km, and 2.5 km from the park, indicating its proximity to neighboring districts, with Jesús María being the closest, located less than 1 km away.

3.2. Master Plan

Figure 10 shows a detailed zoning of the master plan, dividing the site into five distinct areas that address the community’s needs. Among these areas, three key buildings are highlighted: a community library, a cultural center, and a resource center for citizens. Additionally, two outdoor spaces are included: a cultural esplanade and an ecological space. The percentage distribution of these areas is strategic, with 37.65% dedicated to the ecological park, 11.7% to the cultural center, 8.17% to the community library, 6.28% to the resource center, and 12.95% to the cultural esplanade.

The design of each space within this project is inspired by the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing critical areas such as climate action, quality education, life on land, affordable and clean energy, and sustainable cities and communities [34]. The project will include accessible entrances from Antonio Polo Street and Jr. Santiago Wagner, ensuring inclusivity and user-friendly access through ramps and stairs. The essence of these spaces is centered on fostering dialogue, community ownership, and promoting environmental sustainability and local diversity. The project focuses on creative and cultural development, enhancing community engagement by creating an environment that encourages and supports active interaction.

Figure 11 provides a more detailed view of the interrelation between the various spaces, highlighting that 61% of the total area is dedicated to green spaces. These include both the ecological area and the 731 m² of landscaped areas and green zones distributed strategically across the ecological park. These green spaces not only contribute to the aesthetic quality of the environment but also play a crucial role in improving air quality. Green areas act as natural lungs, filtering carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, significantly enhancing the creation of a healthier urban environment. Additionally, they help mitigate atmospheric pollution, providing the community with a space that promotes environmental sustainability, as well as the health and well-being of Pueblo Libre’s residents [35].

3.3. Proposed Spaces

3.3.1. Community Library

The community library is conceived not only as a space for knowledge and learning but also as a cultural hub that will strengthen the connection between the Pueblo Libre community and its surrounding green environment. The library’s architecture is designed to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, fostering an atmosphere that encourages reading, learning, and the exchange of ideas. Beyond housing a vast collection of educational resources, the library provides a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the literature while enjoying the natural setting, enhancing the overall experience of both education and relaxation. This integration of nature with knowledge helps to cultivate a deeper sense of community engagement and environmental appreciation.

The community library, as shown in Figure 12, is designed with two levels, covering a total area of 670 m². Of this space, 60 m² is dedicated to an outdoor green area that functions as a courtyard. This sustainable design incorporates bio-gardens and planters on the terrace. These features not only promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability but also offer opportunities for active community involvement in sustainable agricultural practices. The library thus fosters a direct connection with nature, allowing residents to grow local food while learning about eco-friendly practices.

In addition to its environmental focus, the library plays a pivotal role in providing quick and accurate access to valuable information about the Pueblo Libre community. It is conceived as a central space where community members and visitors can find detailed information on various aspects of the area, such as population, education, health, economy, and culture. As shown in Figure 13, this space serves as a tool to empower the local population, enabling them to engage in beneficial social and economic activities, ultimately contributing to the district’s sustainable development [36].

3.3.2. The Cultural Center (Centro Cultural) and Citizenship Resource Center (CREC)

The cultural center is envisioned as a multifunctional space that fosters creativity, artistic expression, and cultural exchange. It combines modern architecture with natural elements, creating an inclusive meeting point for the diverse community. The center hosts various activities, such as workshops, theater performances, concerts, and interactive events, promoting the development of artistic and cultural strategies among participants. The Citizenship Resource Center is focused on addressing the practical needs of the community. It provides access to public services, educational resources, and community development programs. With modern technology and trained staff, the center facilitates training programs, government services, and community support. By integrating the Resource Center into the project, the initiative aims to revitalize the cultural landscape, counteract environmental degradation, and empower the community to thrive and actively participate in its own development [37,38].

The Cultural Center and the Citizenship Resource Center (CREC), as shown in Figure 14, are designed as interconnected spaces that promote sustainability and community engagement. The Cultural Center, with three levels and a total area of 680 m², incorporates an 80 m² green area, which features a community garden. This space emphasizes ecological sustainability and serves as a hub for cultural and artistic activities. The CREC, also with three levels and covering 350 m², integrates a 70 m² community garden and features terraces with planters, contributing to both the aesthetic and ecological aspects of the building. These gardens are designed to offer hands-on learning experiences related to sustainable agricultural practices, fostering environmental awareness and promoting local food cultivation in Pueblo Libre.

3.3.3. Cultural Esplanade

The Cultural Esplanade is designed as a dynamic space for cultural events and community activities. It functions not only as a meeting place but also as a versatile venue for a wide range of events, from concerts and artistic performances to fairs and civic activities. This open area is envisioned as a central hub for artistic expression and civic participation, providing an inclusive stage for local artists and cultural groups to showcase their talents and engage with the community. By fostering creativity and community involvement, the esplanade contributes to the cultural vitality of Pueblo Libre.

The Cultural Esplanade (Figure 15) covers an area of 350 m², with approximately 100 m² dedicated to green space, including trees for shade. This area will feature urban furniture, including five benches and nine 10 m² planters, with the flooring made from red and brown concrete pavers. As a connective element, the esplanade will enhance the surrounding urban spaces and provide a bridge between the project, the Parque 3 de Octubre, and the nearby residential areas. It is designed to become a place where residents can engage with the space, fostering community interaction. This space will also host various outdoor cultural and recreational activities, such as dance performances, theater, concerts, and artisan fairs, contributing to a more diverse cultural and recreational scene in the area. By enriching community life, the Cultural Esplanade aims to become a vibrant center for cultural exchange and social cohesion [39].

3.3.4. Ecological Park

The main purpose of the ecological park is to preserve and conserve the environment, acting as a space where the community can connect with nature. It functions as a tool to raise environmental awareness and foster a direct link between the public and the importance of environmental protection. Among the park’s key benefits is its contribution to mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon emissions through its plant species. This helps reduce the environmental footprint while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship within the local community [40].

Figure 16 presents a section of the project, where it can be seen that the ecological park covers an area of 2880 m², with 1980 m² allocated to the development of green spaces and the conservation of plants such as the ómbu, molles serranos, tecoma, molle costero, papelillo, morera, and the endangered Amancaes flower. Additionally, the space incorporates agroecological zones, sensory gardens, and a bioclimatic children’s garden, emphasizing the commitment to botanical diversity and environmental education. On the other hand, the walkway areas are designated for outdoor art exhibitions, a dance and choreography cultural center, and amphitheaters, solidifying the ecological park as a multifunctional space that combines cultural appreciation with environmental conservation and sustainable education.

The increase in green areas, particularly in the ecological zone as shown in

Table 3. Relationship between carbon capture and population by species.

Species	CO2 Captured (Kg/year) per Tree	Percentage of CO2 Captured	Number of Trees	Total CO2 Captured (Kg/year)
Schinus molle	182.64	35.87	10	1826.4
Morus Alba	58.67	11.52	3	176.01
Schinus terebinthifolius	74.364	14.60	10	743.64
Jacaranda mimosifolia	52.411	10.29	12	628.93
Ficus carica	56.67	11.13	3	170.01
Caesalpinia spinosa	25.00	4.91	5	125.00
Prosopis pallida	17.40	3.41	2	34.80
Erythrina crista-galli	22.00	4.32	6	132.00
Bambú	20.00	3.95	7	140.00
Total	509.155	100	58	3976.79

, presents a significant opportunity to enhance carbon dioxide (CO₂) absorption. Vegetation plays a crucial role in photosynthesis, capturing carbon and releasing oxygen. As a result, it can absorb up to 3544.99 kg of CO₂ annually. This positive impact not only contributes to mitigating climate change but also strengthens the environmental health and sustainability of the district [41].

3.4. Materiality

In Peru, the use of bamboo is growing, and the Ministry of Housing, Construction, and Sanitation (MVCS) has implemented a standard that addresses the basic criteria for the use of this material. It also demonstrates national interest in implementing bamboo and wild cane plantations [42].

Bamboo is recognized as an ecological material thanks to its remarkable ability to absorb large amounts of carbon, a result of its rapid growth and high biomass production. It is one of the most efficient plant species in the world at capturing CO₂. Furthermore, it regenerates naturally through rhizomes, without the need for replanting, and can grow even in infertile soils, making it ideal as a complement to diverse agricultural and agroforestry systems [43].

In the ecological park project in Pueblo Libre, bamboo has been chosen as a sustainable material. This decision reflects a commitment to environmentally conscious construction practices and resource efficiency. Bamboo, known for its rapid growth and structural resilience, will play a significant role in the park’s architecture, particularly in the construction of pergolas and lightweight structures. Furthermore, bamboo will be used in the creation of urban furniture, enhancing the durability and sustainable design of the park’s resting and recreational areas.

In contrast to traditional materials, such as cement, steel, or bricks, bamboo stands out for its lower environmental impact. Its cultivation does not require complex extraction and transportation systems, and the conditioning phase does not involve the emission of harmful chemicals or combustion processes. Additionally, its waste is mostly organic, further contributing to sustainability. This material choice highlights the project’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while promoting sustainable practices.

Figure 17 illustrates the use of bamboo in the exteriors of the buildings, and this eco-friendly material will also be incorporated into the interiors, including furniture and ceilings. The choice of bamboo not only brings environmental benefits, such as reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainable forestry practices, but it also contributes to the park’s visual identity by creating a welcoming and natural atmosphere. This approach to materiality underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and seamless integration with the surrounding environment, making bamboo an essential element that blends functionality with aesthetics in Pueblo Libre [44,45].

Its versatility allows for innovative architectural designs, enabling the creation of lightweight yet sturdy structures that align with bioclimatic principles. By integrating bamboo into the project, the park not only enhances its sustainability credentials but also promotes the use of eco-conscious materials that harmonize with the cultural and natural heritage of Pueblo Libre.

3.5. Strategies Applied to the Project

3.5.1. Photovoltaic Lighting

Solar-powered streetlights are an independent lighting system installed on poles, using photovoltaic solar energy stored in batteries to provide clean energy for lighting systems during the night. This efficient lighting system harnesses solar energy to meet the lighting needs of the space during nighttime. The photovoltaic panels are placed in various areas of the park, capturing solar energy and converting it into electricity [46].

Additionally, solar-powered lighting systems not only reduce dependence on conventional energy sources but also offer advantages such as efficiency, reliability, cost reduction, secure connection to the electrical grid, energy storage, and a minimal environmental impact. Continuous technological advancements in solar energy further enhance the performance and sustainability of these systems, making them a key element in eco-friendly infrastructure projects. This approach contributes significantly to energy conservation and supports a greener, more sustainable environment [47].

The characteristics of the solar luminaires selected for the project are detailed in

Table 4. Solar luminaire characteristics.

Model	FP060A/Bifacial Monocrystalline Panel
Solar Panel Potential	80 W
Illumination Radius	8 m
Height	6 m
Luminosity	8000 lm

. In Figure 18, the solar lighting system is shown along the project’s pathway, with the calculation based on the illumination radius and the free area of the ecological park, as outlined in

Table 5. Solar luminaire calculation.

Free area of the ecological park	5352.9 m2
Illumination area	201.06 m2
Units of solar luminaires	26

. The analysis concludes that 26 solar lighting units are required to adequately illuminate key areas such as the ecological zone, cultural esplanade, and the paths around the park. This solution ensures energy-efficient lighting while maintaining the sustainability goals of the park [48].

3.5.2. Artificial Wetland

Incorporating an artificial wetland into the project serves as a key bioclimatic and environmental strategy. This wetland will function as a natural filtration system, purifying rainwater and promoting local aquifer recharge. Additionally, it will provide a habitat for various aquatic species, enriching the park’s biodiversity. This approach not only helps with water management but also enhances the ecological balance within the park, supporting both environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The wetland will contribute to the park’s multifunctionality, making it an essential element for ecosystem preservation.

The artificial wetland, as depicted in Figure 19, covers an area of 35 m² with a volume of 38.5 m³ and is centrally located within the project, surrounded by all the buildings. This wetland is crucial for the environmental management of the park, especially in water purification and nutrient absorption. The chosen plant species for the wetland include Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth), Lemna sp. (duckweed), Scirpus californicus (California bulrush), and Schoenoplectus lacustris (common bulrush). These plants are known for their ability to absorb toxins and nutrients from the water, enhancing the sustainability and biodiversity of the ecosystem [49].

According to

Table 6. Calculation of liters of artificial wetland.

Surface Area (m2)	Mean Water Depth (m)	Volume (m3)
35 m2	1.1 m	38.5 m3
1 m3 = 1000 L water
Volume (m3)	Liters of Water (L)	Total Constructed Wetland Water
38.5 m3	1000 L	38,500 L

, the artificial wetland will use 38,500 L of water, a quantity calculated to optimize its performance in water purification and treatment. This ensures the wetland operates efficiently, fostering biodiversity and improving the quality of the surrounding water. By employing this calculated volume, the wetland will help manage water effectively while contributing to the ecological health of the park.

4. Discussion

In Miraflores, one of Lima’s most visited districts, the Parque Bicentenario has been developed with consideration for social, security, tourism, and landscaping factors. It has become an iconic example of Peruvian landscaping. Located on the cliffs of the Malecón Armendáriz, the park has transformed into a new green lung for the city. It features an innovative terracing system, inspired by ancestral construction methods, and reinforced retaining walls using geocells and geomesh. The park is a large biodiversity garden that houses over 160,000 xerophilous coastal species, 300 trees, and 80 palm trees, all with low water consumption. A total of 83% of the park is covered by green areas, providing oxygen and life, while also representing the global fight against climate change and deforestation [50]. Environmental guides from the Municipality of Miraflores offer information and guidance on its rich flora and biodiversity [7].

In the district of Santiago de Surco, an innovative approach is proposed with the integration of an ecological park as part of an urban proposal. This park is the first thematic park about climate change in South America. It serves as a space for participation, dialogue, and learning, allowing visitors to interactively understand the causes and consequences of global warming. Most importantly, it encourages action in response to this environmental issue. This project demonstrates how the intersection of culture and the natural environment can generate a positive impact on society, promoting a harmonious coexistence between the city and nature.

In France, the St. Jacques Ecological Park is an urban–natural project that integrates the territorial, historical, sociological, and political context. This park serves as a transitional zone between urban and rural areas, as it is located in a valley spanning 40 hectares, featuring a hybrid nature that blends natural biodiversity with historical agricultural elements. The park undergoes a process of renaturalization to connect the forest landscape with nearby neighborhoods. It was designed with community participation and does not conform to the typical park profile, focusing on preserving and protecting the ecosystems within. The project promotes ecological connectivity and creates a functional, educational public space [5].

In Chengdu, the results of the study conducted demonstrate how accelerated urban growth directly impacts the increase in Land Surface Temperature (LST), a phenomenon that can also be observed in other Latin American cities with similar expansion patterns. The positive correlation between LST and the Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), along with the negative correlation with the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), reinforces the idea that the loss of vegetation cover and the consolidation of impervious surfaces are key factors in the intensification of Urban Heat Islands (UHI). The type of analysis performed, based on satellite imagery, not only allows for an understanding of the thermal transformations of the urban landscape but also provides tools to project sustainable interventions in growing urban contexts, such as the case presented in this article, where a landscape revaluation strategy with an ecological approach is proposed [51,52].

While the proposed design addresses the complexity of integrating green spaces into compact cities with significant historical and cultural value, it is based on architectural and urban strategies aimed at creating a green lung in the heart of the city. This approach acknowledges the uniqueness of each urban context and emphasizes the need for solutions tailored to the specific characteristics of historical and cultural sites.

The results obtained allow for the projection of practical applications of the study in similar urban contexts, especially in cities with undervalued historical and cultural heritage. The proposal for the ecological park not only represents a replicable model of sustainable intervention but also demonstrates how landscape design can be integrated with strategies for the conservation of cultural landscapes. In this sense, the use of native tree species responds not only to environmental criteria, such as CO₂ capture and adaptability to the local climate, but also reinforces territorial identity through the reintroduction of flora traditionally associated with these contexts.

5. Conclusions

The creation of an ecological park in the district of Pueblo Libre goes beyond the mere revaluation of the cultural landscape; it stands as a practical strategy to combat environmental degradation. This green space will contribute significantly to air and water purification, playing an essential role in enhancing the quality of life for local residents. Moreover, the park fosters social connectivity and integration with nature, offering the community not just a green area but an experience that strengthens the bond between inhabitants and their environment.

Additionally, the park’s role as an integrator is evident in the creation of public spaces that encourage interaction and civic participation. The resulting green areas not only beautify the city but also foster activities that connect users to their surroundings, creating a vital link between the city and nature. This comprehensive approach not only addresses environmental needs but also strengthens the social fabric and cultural identity of the community.

Finally, the ecological park represents more than just a green oasis; it becomes a significant landmark that achieves a successful convergence between sustainability, culture, and community. The inclusion of cultural buildings within the park not only enriches local cultural life but also sets an exemplary model for sustainable urban planning. This holistic and visionary approach lays the groundwork for future urban developments that seek not only to preserve but also to enhance the harmonious relationship between the city, nature, and its people.