Study of the social significance of water and its treatment in La Reforma, Alto Lucero de Gutiérrez Barrios, Veracruz, Mexico: interests and opportunities

Abstract

The treatment of wastewater in rural areas presents a multifaceted challenge that requires collaboration among government entities, academic institutions, and community members. In Mexico, over 184,000 rural communities lack adequate sanitation systems, leading to significant social and environmental issues. Non-conventional technologies, such as constructed wetlands (CWs) present favorable solutions for rural communities due to their environmental, economic, and social advantages. This study employed documentary research, participant observation, and structured interviews conducted door-to-door in the La Reforma community, located in Alto Lucero, Veracruz, Mexico. The aim was to assess residents' knowledge regarding environmental issues and the management of the community's wastewater, as well as their interest in adopting a non-conventional sanitation system, specifically a treatment wetland. The findings indicate that while the population is aware of water pollution, they lack in-depth knowledge regarding specific details. Although they are unfamiliar with sanitation infrastructure based on constructed wetlands, they expressed a desire for a treatment system when introduced to basic concepts and showed willingness to collaborate on the project. The initiative enjoys social acceptance, and the next phase will involve governmental coordination for implementation, with municipal authorities and academic participation identified as key stakeholders.