Access to potable water and agroecosystem sustainability in indigenous communities: the case of Chimborazo

Abstract

The study focused on access to potable water and agroecosystem sustainability in indigenous communities of Chimborazo, Ecuador. The purpose of the research was to identify the challenges these communities face in accessing clean water and to analyze the impact of this issue on agricultural sustainability. The main objective was to assess the population's satisfaction with water services and their perception of its quality. The methodology involved a survey of 120 community members, with results processed using the Iadov technique to measure satisfaction. In addition, regulations and literature related to water rights and agroecological sustainability were reviewed. The results showed that 91% of the population was dissatisfied with access to potable water, and 45% believed the water was unsafe for their health. Problems such as inadequate infrastructure, water source contamination, and supply interruptions were identified. The conclusions highlighted that access to potable water is limited, compromising both the health of the inhabitants and the viability of the agroecosystems. The study recommends improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable water management in these communities.

Keywords: Sustainability, Agroecosystems, Water consumption, Indigenous communities.