Aqua (Nov 2021)

Defining domestic water consumption based on personal water use activities

  • Melissa Lauren Crouch,
  • Heinz Erasmus Jacobs,
  • Vanessa L. Speight

DOI
https://doi.org/10.2166/aqua.2021.056
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 70, no. 7
pp. 1002 – 1011

Abstract

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As the world increasingly faces water shortages, it is critical to develop realistic estimates of water consumption based on water-use activities rather than top-down imposed limits. This study quantifies the absolute basic consumption (ABC) of an individual, irrespective of water-use location or water source, with a focus on personal water-use activities rather than measured household consumption. A theoretical model to stochastically describe 21 personal water-use activities was developed, corresponding to lifestyle levels based upon Maslow's hierarchy of physiological needs. From this model, the expected value of ABC was 92 L/capita/day (LPCD) and includes restrictions on several everyday activities and thus would be better as a minimum target during stringent water restrictions. A more realistic expected value for non-wasteful, indoor-only water use was determined to be 175 LPCD. The results of this study serve as a useful benchmark to inform policy choices and efforts to conserve water without affecting health and wellbeing. HIGHLIGHTS It is important to quantify water consumption based on water-use activities and across all daily water-use locations.; The expected value of basic water consumption for a healthy urban lifestyle is 92 L/person/day, which includes restrictions on everyday activities.; A more realistic expected value for water consumption is 175 L/person/day across all water-use locations during a typical day.;

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