Lake Atitlan: A Review of the Food, Energy, and Water Sustainability of a Mountain Lake in Guatemala

This paper summarizes the findings of an extensive review literature that was conducted to understand historical state food, energy, and water nexus in Lake Atitlan basin recommend incentive-based, long-term sustainable policies become a significant driver Guatemala’s tourism industry GDP growth. The SWAT (Soil Water Assessment Tool) implemented work towards goal simulating nutrient loading. A key conclusion this study is for local population have advocacy “zero wastewater discharge Atitlan” initiative bring benefits lake quality. One recommended policy decisions seek external financing from international agencies like World Bank at low-cost interest (IDA Loans) implement waste management systems pay debt by putting small but affordable tax on tourists visiting lake. Once culture zero municipal effluent adopted population, livelihood residents will standard living increase because improved air quality, making haven Guatemala lifting its economy.