Water Conservation Education in Elementary Schools: The Case of the Nenetzingo River Catchment, Mexico

Abstract

Water is one of the primary resources for humans; however, clean water available for consumption is a constant problem worldwide. Nonetheless, environmental education is fundamental to promote social consciousness and orientate people to improve water management, and children are the main target as they are prone to adopt long-lasting habits. Therefore, this study aimed to implement an environmental education program on water conservation in 10-year-old students from two rural communities within the Nenetzingo River catchment in Mexico. The study was a three-step methodology that included diagnostics, education, and evaluation. It was found that the students that participated in the educational program enriched their knowledge, attitudes, and perception towards water. Therefore, implementing environmental education programs in young students can improve water use and conservation in Mexico. Additionally, the design used in this research allows identifying the target groups for immediate intervention.

Effects of climate change on water resources in Mexico

“…According to O'Brien (2010), it is necessary to consider cultural contexts and various cultures' relationships with the environment. Valenzuela-Morales et al (2022) support the assertion, adding that the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding water conservation can significantly improve through education regarding water conservation. A society knowledgeable on water conservation will be more competent in calling for and spurring positive policies in that regard.…”

“…Numerous studies concede that Mexico features one of the highest water-stress indices globally (Rangel Medina et al, 2011;Cort es Muñoz and Calder on M olgora, 2011;Dom ınguez Serrano, 2011;Palacios V elez and Mejia Saez, 2011). The trend has not shifted as hinted by Water.org (2022), andValenzuela-Morales et al (2022), who noted increased droughts over the last five years leading up to 2022; and that in Mexico City alone, over 380, 000 residents have no access to water. The nation is currently ranked 24th in the global water-stressed countries (Hofste et al, 2019).…”

“…, 2011; Cortés Muñoz and Calderón Mólgora, 2011; Domínguez Serrano, 2011; Palacios Vélez and Mejia Saez, 2011). The trend has not shifted as hinted by Water.org (2022), and Valenzuela-Morales et al. (2022), who noted increased droughts over the last five years leading up to 2022; and that in Mexico City alone, over 380, 000 residents have no access to water.…”

“…Agriculture is such an industry, consuming the bulk of the nation's water resources (Spring, 2014). The statistics on agriculture's water consumption highlight even with interventions such as the National Water Law, little to no progress will be made (Spring, 2014; Valenzuela-Morales et al. , 2022).…”

“…Agriculture is such an industry, consuming the bulk of the nation's water resources (Spring, 2014). The statistics on agriculture's water consumption highlight even with interventions such as the National Water Law, little to no progress will be made (Spring, 2014;Valenzuela-Morales et al, 2022). Thus, a conundrum exists as food is also a necessary aspect for survival, highlighting a need for socially acceptable approaches Palacios V elez and Mejia Saez (2011).…”