Introduction
Water is not just a resource; it’s fundamentally essential for life, both biologically and socially, economically, and culturally. Without it, human existence is unimaginable. However, our planet faces a severe water crisis that impacts ecosystems, human communities, and economic structures. This pressing issue was the central theme at the third Women’s Energy and Sustainability Summit (WESS 2025) held on July 2, 2025, in Mexico City’s JW Marriott Reforma hotel.
The Global Water Crisis
The summit brought together leaders and experts to discuss sustainable solutions for water, energy, and the environment. The crisis is characterized by limited freshwater availability—only 3% of Earth’s water is fresh, with 77% of that being inaccessible due to polar ice caps. This scarcity poses significant challenges, necessitating creative responses and collaborative efforts.
Key Panel Discussions
“Global Water Crisis: Causes and Consequences”
The first panel emphasized climate change’s impact on water availability. Lorena Alfaro, Mayor of Irapuato and a water management expert, highlighted Mexico’s National Water Commission (CONAGUA) efforts to address water usage across various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and potable water. Alfaro stressed the need for coordinated action to develop short-term solutions.
“Technological Innovations for Efficient Water Use in Industry”
The second panel focused on technology’s role in resolving the water crisis. Carmen Guerrero, representing Kilimo, shared a successful case study of using artificial intelligence to identify vulnerable zones in Mexico and implement risk management solutions. This approach leveraged data-driven insights to optimize water allocation for irrigation and crop cultivation.
“Renewable Energies and Their Relationship with Water”
The third panel discussed the long-term transition to renewable energy and its connection to water. Beatriz Marcelino, CEO of Grupo CIITA, explained that while renewable energy is crucial for reducing carbon emissions, the transition must be equitable. She pointed out that in Mexico, 34% of emissions come from energy generation, 25% from industry, and the rest from transportation, agriculture, and service management.
“Sustainable Financing for Water Projects”
The final panel, led by Luis Miguel González of El Economista, addressed the importance of sustainable financing, strategic urban planning, and intersectoral collaboration. Martha Peña Ordoñez, a BID consultant, emphasized the need for strategic planning at local and regional levels to ensure efficient water infrastructure development and sustainability.
Conclusion
The WES Summit 2025 demonstrated the commitment of women leaders in addressing water-related challenges and shaping a sustainable future. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and strategic planning, the global community can work towards resolving the water crisis and ensuring a resilient planet for generations to come.
Key Takeaways
- Climate Change Impact: Climate change exacerbates water scarcity, necessitating immediate action and coordinated efforts.
- Technological Innovations: Leveraging technology, such as artificial intelligence, can optimize water usage and allocation in various sectors.
- Renewable Energy Transition: The shift to renewable energy is crucial for reducing carbon emissions, but it must be equitable and inclusive.
- Sustainable Financing: Strategic planning, urban development, and intersectoral collaboration are essential for efficient water infrastructure development.
