Public perceptions of rainwater harvesting (RWH): Comparing users and non-users of RWH systems

Snelling, Andrea; Snelling, Andrea M.; Lamond, Jessica; Everett, Glyn; O'Donnell, Emily; O’Donnell, Emily C.; Sangaralingam, Ahilan; Ahilan, Sangaralingam; Thorne, Colin

Abstract

The UK’s abundant municipal water supply has resulted in slow progress with the uptake of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems within the home. Research has indicated that exploring public preferences for domestic RWH are necessary for increasing demand. Here, we use explicit and implicit tests to investigate public perceptions of RWH for non-potable uses, and compare perceptions of respondents with and without domestic RWH systems. RWH is perceived positively by most respondents indicating an openness and acceptance of this technology (and/or lack of strong negative attitudes). Implicit attitudes are generally more positive than explicit, especially in respondents with RWH systems, implying that the positivity is deep-seated in their subconsciousness. We also reveal differences between subconscious (implicit) beliefs and practical difficulties (explicit opinions). Outdoor uses of rainwater are preferred, hence, more work in promoting indoor uses is needed to maximise the resource potential of UK rainfall and uptake of RWH systems.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 26, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Dec 6, 2023
• Publication Date: 2024
• Deposit Date: Nov 9, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 9, 2024
• Journal: Urban Water Journal
• Print ISSN: 1573-062X
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 21
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 181-189
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1573062X.2023.2281310
• Keywords: Water Science and Technology, Geography, Planning and Development
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/11419300