How Should the Fundacion Gonzalo Rio-Arronte Allocate $15 Million Annually to Address Mexico's Water Problems?

Mexico’s water issues are complicated by a heterogeneous distribution of water resources that is inverse to its distribution of socioeconomic resources. The Fundación Gonzalo Río Arronte is a Mexico City-based charitable foundation that would like to know the best practices in improving water supply and quality in Mexico. Possible water interventions were sorted into four categories: technology-based solutions, microfinance, community engagement and capacity-building, and green infrastructure. Best practices in each of these four areas were summarized with literature reviews, case studies, and interviews with global NGOs. We report the following. Technology-based solutions should be integrated with education and advocacy programs to ensure the longevity of the project. The key to a successful, self-sustaining microfinance program is a high repayment rate. Community-based projects must create a feeling of ownership of the water project or resources through provision of training, meaningful local control of decisions, and building local human capital. Constructed wetlands can be a low-cost, low-maintenance, decentralized option for local water quality treatment. Ecosystem restoration projects should have a consistent, scientific protocol of site selection to make these expensive projects cost-effective.