Global Mezcal Boom Drives Deforestation, Water Stress in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca's mezcal production has surged from 1 million to over 11 million liters annually since 2010, spurred by rising global demand, especially from the EU. This growth is causing substantial deforestation, soil erosion, and water resource depletion as agave plantations replace native forests. Efforts by producers like Gladys Sánchez Garnica and environmental groups aim to protect ecosystems, but balancing economic benefits with ecological sustainability remains a major challenge.