Introduction
Mexico is grappling with a severe water crisis, facing moderate to exceptional drought conditions in 41.8% of its territory. This situation has placed Mexico at position 26 globally in terms of water stress, exacerbated by the contamination of 60% of its water bodies and the concentration of 77% of its population in areas with only 33% of renewable water resources. Amidst this challenge, Aquatech México 2025 has emerged as a crucial forum to tackle this issue by engaging key stakeholders and identifying responsibilities for each party involved.
The Aquatech México 2025 Event
Taking place from September 2 to 4 at the Centro Citibanamex in Mexico City, Aquatech México 2025 aims to gather over 100 exhibitors and 10,000 professionals. The event seeks to establish itself as a strategic platform for innovation and collaboration, serving as a meeting point where experts, industry leaders, and decision-makers work together to implement practical solutions.
Understanding Water Management Responsibilities
Marissa Mar, a communication and water education strategist, explains that the notion of “everyone’s responsibility” often dilutes accountability for water issues. She emphasizes the importance of clearly defining who is responsible for what in water management:
- National Level: The National Water Commission (CONAGUA)
- State and Municipal Level: Water operating agencies
- End Users: Industries, agriculture, and the general public
Marissa stresses that citizens need clear, transparent information on water quantity and quality at the catchment, state, and municipal levels to effectively engage in addressing water issues.
Water Crisis as a Human Rights Issue
During the media briefing, water sector representatives agreed that the water crisis is not merely a technical problem but also a human rights and social justice concern. Raúl Rodríguez, President of the Water Advisory Council, highlighted the significance of preventive investment:
- The value of water is crucial; investing in prevention and infrastructure avoids costs up to ten times higher during a crisis.
- There is a need for increased budgetary allocation, as the current annual investment of 37 million pesos is insufficient compared to the proposed 150 million pesos annually for ten years.
Rodríguez identified three pillars for resolving water issues: political will, budgetary financing, and innovation & technology. He noted that international organizations recommend countries invest between 1% and 1.5% of their GDP in the water sector, while Mexico is far from this reality. Out of 4,000 existing water treatment plants in the country, nearly 2,000 are underutilized or abandoned due to insufficient funding.
