Systemic sustainability and the human right to water: a case study of San Jerónimo Amanalco

Abstract

This document is based on empirical data on drinking water users in the community of San Jerónimo Amanalco, Texcoco. It aims to show how the theory of ecosystem sustainability and the right to water, framed in theoretical and legal guidelines, provide elements for the explanation and analysis of environmental issues encompassed within the socio-ecological system. The paper begins with the definition and contributions of systemic sustainability theory and then applies it to the management of watersheds, seen as a reservoir of necessary elements for the water cycle. Then it raises the issue of the Valley of Mexico Watershed where the lack of integration among different water uses is evident. It continues with the theoretical contribution of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), recognizing the need to integrate the economic, social and environmental systems to achieve sustainability from a holistic approach. Then it seeks to relate the theoretical views with the legal basis of drinking water as a human right, since by resuming the socio-ecological approach, society must be taken into account in any environmental management initiative. Later on, the characteristics of the community are presented as constituent elements of sustainability, demonstrating the existence of environmental issues and water scarcity; therefore, access to water as a human right is not fulfilled.