Impacts of Western Modern Science and Education on Water Quality and Access in Sololá, Guatemala

Abstract

In the department of Sololá, Guatemala, pollution from agricultural and wastewater runoff is the primary threat to water quality for the indigenous communities that make up the majority of the population. The region’s Lake Atitlán is not only one of Guatemala’s largest lakes and a major tourist attraction, but it is also of symbolic value for the indigenous communities and for some, their main source of water. Numerous organizations, both state-led and private, work towards improving scientific understanding of the impacts of contamination and propose Western modern science interventions for prevention and treatment. This thesis examines the impact that these interventions have on indigenous communities’ ability to access safe water, by looking into impacts on policy, behavior, and community action. The main methodologies used were participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Research on the social and political implications of Western modern science interventions offers important insights for how to improve intervention planning and execution for improved efficacy.