Causality between challenges, motivations, and extent of use of water recycling systems in residential properties

Abstract

The paper examines the challenges and extent of the use of water recycling systems in residential properties in five case studies: Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Panama, and South Africa. Based on a review of related literature and a survey of households was conducted, the micro-social, economic, and technical challenges in households and the level of adoption and willingness to use water recycling systems by the homeowners have been identified. The study found that the lack of space, no clear savings on water payment and lack of information/awareness are the most micro-challenges on implementation of water recycling in residential properties. The study deduces that the negative impacts of micro-challenges on implementing water recycling systems will be significantly reduced by improving water recycling systems' efficiency. Moreover, the study concludes that the extent of the use of recycled water in residential properties will increase with public awareness and educating homeowners. The acquisition of the basic environmental and technical knowledge associated with water recycling and the government incentive for implementing water recycling systems in residential properties were recommended in the study. The findings of this study assist in developing a data-driven decision-making framework to build capacity for the analysis of new water reuse intervention strategies commensurate with the capabilities and resources of urban authorities and communities