Water consumption in Mexico has seen a significant increase of 16.4% over the past twelve years, according to the latest report from WWF Mexico. This increase highlights the growing burden on the country’s water resources.
The Impact of the Agricultural Sector on the Water Footprint
According to the study, the agricultural sector is the largest water consumer, accounting for 75.5% of the national water footprint. This sector is key in the debate on the water crisis, as its constant demand for water affects millions of people.
Urban expansion has also increased the need for water in cities, where it is required to meet the needs of households and industries.
WWF Mexico and AgroDer highlight that agriculture is responsible for more than three-quarters of the water use, calling for urgent measures to deal with the current situation.
The water footprint is an indicator that measures the volume of freshwater needed to produce goods and services. This indicator includes all stages of production, from cultivation to distribution.
The 16.4% increase in the national water footprint is a direct reflection of the growing pressure on water resources and concerns sector experts.
Ricardo A. Morales, director of AgroDer, explains that market demand and the lack of awareness about the seasonality of agricultural products exacerbate the problem.
Intensive production systems, necessary to meet demand, increase water use and put pressure on aquifers and water sources.
Specialists agree that increasing water efficiency in agriculture is essential to reduce the environmental impact.
Southern Mexico, despite being rich in water resources, faces access problems due to a lack of adequate infrastructure.
Experts suggest that the solution to the water problem lies not only in the availability of water but also in its management and efficient planning.
Representatives from WWF Mexico, AgroDer, the Water Advisory Council, and the National Agricultural Council emphasized that the water crisis is a current threat, not a future one.
The report links this increase in the water footprint to demographic and economic growth, with a 10% increase in population and a 17.2% increase in GDP over twelve years.
This development has intensified the demand for water resources for food, goods, and services.
According to experts, the combination of environmental education, investment in infrastructure, and effective regulation are key to addressing the situation.
The protection of ecosystems is considered fundamental for the conservation and recharge of water resources, being a highly profitable long-term investment.
Promoting sustainable strategies and improving agricultural efficiency are crucial steps to ensure access to one of Mexico’s most valuable resources.
