The socio-environmental history of water from social metabolism to the implementation of a solar desalination system in samalayuca, chihuahua (2000-2020)

Abstract

Analyzing the social metabolism over time helps to understand the socio-environmental transformations of the territory and society from tangible and intangible aspects related to socio-cultural factors of water. The present study relates the transformations through time through the social metabolism of a town in semi-Arid conditions in the north of Mexico (Samalayuca, Chihuahua), in order to know the socio-environmental aspects that can influence the appropriation of a Solar Desalination (SDS) in a family with well water with high salinity, as well as the sociocultural changes of the family after a year of use of the System. For which, a content analysis of hemerographic notes of the town was carried out, from 2000 to 2020, and a follow-up through interviews with users. The socio-environmental aspects identified have as a constant that they are triggered by the perception of a risk in the availability or quality of water, especially if their main economic activity, which is agriculture, is affected. The conflict with a greater approach is the authorization of a mine to Open-pit copper extraction, in which mobilizations were held that achieved protection and the cancellation of the start of activities. They highlight non-violent social action and solidarity when they have faced lack of water. Regarding the SDS, it was installed in October 2019, managing to cover the needs of the family, related to their subsistence, a commitment to the care of the System and an appreciation for water was observed. It highlights the importance of considering both the socio-environmental aspects of a population, as well as the intangible aspects at the time an Appropriation is desired, such as a technological intervention for access to quality water in semi-Arid regions.