Use of Analytic Hierarchy Process Method to Identify Potential Rainwater Harvesting Sites: Design and Financial Strategies in Taxco de Alarcón, Southern Mexico

Abstract

Mexico is among the countries that are facing the greatest water stress, where factors such as climate change, contamination of surface water, groundwater sources, and inefficient management have limited the availability of water resources. Consequently, new supply sources need to be implemented. Rainwater harvesting systems (RHS) are viable and sustainable alternatives, the implementation of which primarily depends on identifying suitable sites and applying technologies that are appropriate for different users. This research used the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique in a GIS environment to select the optimal sites for designing RHS, taking into account hydrological, biophysical, and socioeconomic criteria. After determining the ideal sites, the study presents proposals and costs for the design of an urban and rural RHS based on the characteristics of the region and the needs of the community. The findings show that implementing RHS in the study area can be a practical, economical, and efficient alternative for water resource management, since these projects are aimed at sustainability.