The Hydrosocial Cycle and the Inequalities in Access to Water in Rural Areas of Metropolitan Region of Santiago, Chile

Water scarcity in Chile has been increasing in recent years, particularly in the central-northern region, associated with a sustained decrease in rainfall and the effects of climate change. This study characterizes the hydrosocial cycle in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago, Chile, with a focus on rural areas, examining the relationship between water availability and socioeconomic factors. For this, demographic data and data related to water demand and use, obtained from government databases, were used. In addition, geographic information systems (GIS) were used for spatial analysis and map creation. Finally, surveys were conducted in rural schools and households to obtain information on water use perceptions and practices. The results show inequalities in access to water with a moderate negative correlation between poverty and water connection/consumption. Rural areas exhibited stronger negative correlations, indicating a greater impact of poverty on water access. Water-saving practices, such as reusing washing water for irrigation, were prevalent in rural households. These results highlight the importance of the hydrosocial cycle to understand the dynamics and factors that shape water demand and consumption in a highly complex region.