Puebla to Boost Mezcal Production

The government of Puebla invested US$25.3 million to increase mezcal production. Meanwhile, CCA called on authorities to address water leaks to ensure water security.

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Puebla Invests Millions in Mezcal Production

The government of Puebla allocated MX$442 million (US$25.3 million) to increase mezcal production in the state. The strategy is expected to benefit 5,000 small family producers and generate 20,000 jobs across all stages of the supply chain. Currently Puebla produces 500,000L of mezcal and holds second place in terms of production volume in the country. The state government aims to cultivate 5,000ha of agave with the goal of doubling the annual production to 1 million L by 2024.  

Mexico Loses Up to 50% of Water to Leaks in Agriculture: CCA

The Water Advisory Council (CCA) highlighted that the government needs to address water leaks to prevent waste. Raúl Rodríguez, President, CCA, highlighted that states lose about 40% of water to leaks in municipal distribution systems and up to 50% in irrigation agriculture. Specialists point out that addressing these issues is the most cost-effective solution to increase water availability, in comparison to other infrastructure projects.

Yucatan Presents Sustainability Standard for the Pork Industry

The Pig Farmer’s Association in Merida presented the first International Sustainability Standard for the Pork Industry in Yucatan. The standard will be subject to a 90-day consultation period during which various organizations, associations and academic institutions will be able to provide their input on sustainability matters. According to Carlos Ramayo, President, Pig Farmers’ Association in Merida, these actions aim to benefit the community by promoting economic and social growth. This is particularly important as this sector provides up to 60,000 direct and indirect jobs to workers in the state. 

CIMMYT Calls for Efforts to Save More Water in Agriculture

CIMMYT predicts that by 2050, agriculture production will have to increase 70% to meet the basic food needs of the population. In this regard, water will continue to play an important role in food production. The council stressed that water management could be further improved with technologies such as humidity sensors and satellite data and images. In 2017, FAO created the Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture whose mission is to support significant and measurable advancements in improving and adapting agricultural systems under conditions of growing water scarcity.