A Transdisciplinary Approach to Water Access: An Exploratory Case Study in Indigenous Communities in Chiapas, Mexico

Janeet Rondón-Sulbarán,Ian Balam,Michael Brennan

doi:10.3390/w13131811

Janeet Rondón-Sulbarán, Ian Balam + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/w13131811

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Journal: Water	Publication Date: Jun 30, 2021
Citations: 1	License type: CC BY 4.0

Affiliation: University of Ulster

Abstract

In this article, we address the water challenges faced by Indigenous communities (ICs) in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). The importance of ICs for sustainable regional development is increasingly recognised both at, a policy level and in practice. However, there is a reported lack of empirical evidence that gives voice to how such communities perceive development, particularly sustainable water development as articulated in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (2015–2030). This article provides case-based evidence from one Indigenous community setting, which challenges assumptions concerning water-related development. Using a qualitative methodology, this case study explores the problem of access to safe water faced by ICs and applies a value cocreation framework based on service-dominant logic. The findings highlight the need to develop sustainable water service models focused on the provision of water not just as a commodity or resource but also as a service. Initiatives aimed at addressing water-related challenges will be more likely to succeed when the culture, experiences, knowledge and practices of the communities in need of clean water access are valued and meaningfully incorporated into value cocreation processes.

Highlights

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations (UN)member states in 2015 set out a framework for the 15 years for the elimination of poverty, a reduction in climate change, and the creation of an inclusive and sustainable society for all [1]
The negative issues reported by the participants are carefully analysed and potential solutions identified based on value cocreation practice styles
Indigenous Communities (ICs) attributed the lack of availability and access to clean water to a lack of ‘universal coverage’ derived from the denial of access to sources by private proprietors as well as through deforestation or pollution

Summary

Introduction

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations (UN)member states in 2015 set out a framework for the 15 years for the elimination of poverty, a reduction in climate change, and the creation of an inclusive and sustainable society for all [1]. 31), including Indigenous populations in Latin America. According to the UN, in terms of most indicators of wellbeing, including access to water supply and sanitation services, ICs are usually at a disadvantage as compared with non-Indigenous populations [3]. In Latin America and the Caribbean, only 65% of the population has access to safely managed water supplies [5], compared with 99% basic water coverage in Northern America [6]. In Mexico, access to piped water on premises differs between 97.2% in urban areas and 85% in rural areas [7], and those most affected are Indigenous rural communities where 59.7% of the population lacks access to these basic services [8]

Results

Discussion

Conclusion