Introduction. Introduction: Vernacular architecture uses local knowledge and materials to adapt to the Andean climate and culture, but migration and modernization threaten its value and social cohesion. Preserving it is key to sustainability and community memory. Objective. Therefore, this research aims to: Analyze the formal, functional, constructive, and bioclimatic characteristics, the context and state of conservation of six vernacular houses in the community of Rumicruz, with the purpose of contributing to the rescue, valuation, and preservation of its traditional architecture. Methodology. Qualitative and descriptive research of six vernacular houses in Rumicruz, Chimborazo, combining field work and documentary review. With ethnographic method, it analyzes formal, functional, and bioclimatic aspects through visits and empirical and theoretical data. It includes dwellings and inhabitants, whose knowledge is key to value traditional architecture as a heritage and sustainable model. Results. In Rumicruz, at more than 3200 meters above sea level, six old vernacular dwellings, mostly abandoned, are in a small area for security and access to local materials. They have compact volumes, adobe, and mud walls, sloping thatched roofs and few openings to conserve heat, with orientations that protect from the wind and take advantage of the sun. Internally, multifunctional spaces reflect traditional lifestyles. Their passive bioclimatic design optimizes thermal comfort, supported by wooden structures and local materials, although recent changes have affected their original efficiency and functionality. Conclusion. The vernacular architecture of Rumicruz is an efficient bioclimatic adaptation with local techniques that surpass modern constructions, but modernization and migration threaten its conservation. Revaluing it with policies and training integrating traditional knowledge will strengthen identity and community resilience General Area of Study: Architecture. Specific area of study: Vernacular Architecture. Type of study: Original articles.

Introduction. The paramo ecosystems are among the most important carbon reservoirs in high mountain regions, playing a fundamental role in regulating the global carbon cycle and mitigating climate change. These unique ecosystems, characterized by their high carbon storage capacity in both plant biomass and organic soils, are facing increasing anthropogenic pressures, including the use of fire as a traditional management tool. Objective. This study focused on estimating the organic carbon content released by a controlled vegetation burn in the páramo ecosystem of the Pasguazo community, San Juan parish, Chimborazo province. Methodology. The study area covered 100,035 m² and included three transects, each divided transversely into six quadrants measuring 0,5 m x 0,5 m, with 2 meters between each quadrant. Three quadrants were assigned to the burned area and three to the unburned area. Total organic carbon was determined at two depths: 0–5 cm and 5–10 cm, along with necromass and aboveground biomass (in t ha⁻¹), and fire intensity per quadrant to estimate the amount of organic carbon released. Physicochemical soil properties were analyzed before and after the burn. Statistical analysis included testing for normality and homogeneity of variances, followed by a student’s t-test. Results. The study showed no significant differences in physicochemical properties or organic carbon content before and after the burn. However, at the 0–5 cm depth, the burned area showed a slightly higher mean total carbon content (18.01 t ha⁻¹) compared to the unburned area (17,84 t ha⁻¹). Fire intensity was classified as low. Lastly, the physicochemical characterization of the soil indicated favorable conditions for the regeneration of herbaceous vegetation in the evaluated páramo ecosystem following a controlled burn. Conclusion. It was determined that in the area subjected to controlled burning, the 0–5 cm soil layer had a higher mean organic carbon content (18,01 t ha⁻¹) compared to the unburned area (17,84 t ha⁻¹). General Area of Study: Forest Sciences. Specific area of study: Soils. Type of study: Original articles.