Failed Water Governance Processes in the Mexicali Region: Socio-environmental Conflict over the Constellation Brands Brewery Plant

Abstract

This article addresses the water management in Mexicali related to the surface sources of the Colorado River and the subway sources of the Mexicali Valley aquifer, both of which are transboundary in nature. It examines the environmental and social implications of governmental decisions regarding the Constellation Brands brewery megaproject in a semi-arid area threatened by climate change. Through the water governance framework and using a qualitative research approach, the analysis shows that the promotion of the megaproject was implemented with failures in the processes of inclusion of local social actors. Also, it is determined that its operation would have negative effects on available water sources.