Abstract

This chapter analyzes the current situation and challenges faced by water management in the arid and semi-arid zones of Mexico. It examines the hydroclimatic characteristics of these regions, highlighting the importance of water for maintaining their unique ecosystems and supporting the rural populations that depend on it. Various water sources are studied, including groundwater aquifers, surface waters, rainwater harvesting, and treated wastewater. Each source is vital but presents distinct challenges for sustainable management, including the need for regulatory measures and innovative conservation techniques. Climate change and its effects, such as altered rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures, exacerbate water scarcity and threaten ecosystem stability, necessitating targeted adaptation and mitigation strategies tailored to local conditions. Innovative technologies and practices for water conservation and efficient use are discussed, such as advanced irrigation systems, water reuse, and real-time management through artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. The chapter addresses the complexities of water use in agricultural, domestic, urban, and industrial sectors, with a focus on issues like overexploitation, pollution, climate change impacts, and conflicts over water use. It also underscores the significance of community-based approaches and the need for local engagement in achieving sustainable water management. Finally, the chapter provides an overview of strategies, policies, and legal frameworks aimed at promoting sustainable water management, drawing lessons from successful case studies and emphasizing the importance of integrated resource management, community participation, and international cooperation to tackle the multiple water challenges faced by these regions of Mexico.