Water Management in Latin America: Challenges, Emerging Contaminants and the Case of Colombia

In 2023, the study analyzed the relationship between drinking water quality and environmental, social and economic conditions in Latin America. It observed that industrial and agricultural growth without adequate planning seriously affected water ecosystems. Countries such as Colombia, Mexico and Brazil showed high vulnerability due to outdated regulations, low water treatment coverage and uncontrolled emergence of emerging contaminants. During that year, the effects of climate change intensified, with prolonged droughts and floods, altering both the availability and quality of water. In Colombia, urban disorder and poor land use directly impacted water sources, especially in rural areas, where access to safe water was even more limited. The study compared international water quality indexes with the Colombian IRCA, showing the need to update parameters and include emerging contaminants such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals. In several countries, these compounds exceeded the limits recommended by WHO and EPA, affecting public health, particularly vulnerable populations. The research proposed methodological updating of the IRCA, integrating toxicity and epidemiological risk criteria. It also pointed out that water management should be collective, with investment in infrastructure, technology and citizen education. Finally, it concluded that the Colombian case could serve as a regional reference to improve management and guarantee equitable access to safe drinking water.