9. Comparing São Paulo and Mexico City: Evidence of Scalar Mismatches

This chapter compares the case studies of São Paulo and Mexico City to provide insights on how to best respond to water-related challenges in terms of quantity, quality and climate change, and through which policy instruments. First, it examines both cases in terms of the drivers of their water challenges (see Sect. 9.2). It then analyses the organizational set up of the institutions that respond to these challenges in each case (see Sect. 9.3). Subsequently, it describes the policy instruments employed in both case studies (see Sect. 9.4), and compares their effects on actors (see Sect. 9.5). This is followed by an evaluation of the instruments’ effectiveness in achieving their stated mandates (see Sect. 9.6). It then compares recommendations for redesign and considers lessons that can be learned from each case study (see Sect. 9.7). Finally, the chapter summarizes the conclusions and introduces the concept of ‘Scalar Mismatches’, which, if unaddressed, impede sustainable and inclusive water governance in large metropolises (see Sect. 9.8).