Towards Sustainable Water Management in Mexico: Agroecological Innovation and Polycentric Governance

Abstract

Context. Mexico has faced a worsening water crisis over the past decades. Between 2014 and 2024,reports by the OECD and the National Water Program highlight the need for comprehensive solutions that integrate environmental sustainability and social equity to address these challenges. Problem. Water management in Mexico is characterized by overexploitation and unequal access. Centralized governance approaches have failed to address this issue equitably and sustainably. This research seeks to answer the question: How can growing scientific development and the synergy between polycentric governance and agroecological practices offer comprehensive solutions to environmental, economic and social challenges in water management in Mexico?

Purpose. To analyze the integration of polycentric governance and agroecological practices as innovative and multidisciplinary strategies for sustainable water management in Mexico, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the principles of the Oslo Manual. Methodology. A bibliographic and bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer to identify patterns and trends between 2014 and 2024. The research applied selection criteria to evaluate the evolution and implications of the strategies adopted during this period.

Theoretical and Practical Findings. The theoretical findings highlight the viability of integrating agroecology as a strategy to achieve the SDGs. From a practical perspective, the study confirms that polycentric governance fosters sustainable innovations in water management, as outlined in the Oslo Manual.

Originality. This research is based on a multidisciplinary approach that promotes innovation for sustainable development. It combines agroecology and polycentric governance, emphasizing their relevance to the 2030 Agenda and the Oslo Manual, addressing water challenges through a multidisciplinary and participatory lens, aligning with SDGs 6, 12, and 15, and promoting practices that foster environmental sustainability and social equity.

Conclusions and Limitations. Combining agroecology and polycentric governance can enhance water use efficiency and equity in distribution. Future research is recommended to explore the integration of polycentric approaches into other natural resources, highlighting how these strategies can adapt to SDGs 6, 12, and 15.