The influence of public perception on acceptance of potable water reclamation schemes. The case of Diepsloot township, Johannesburg

Abstract

While a considerable amount of research in several parts of the world has already demonstrated reclaimed water safety and reliability for various uses, its acceptance and use by communities and households in South Africa remains very low. In this article, we use quantitative and qualitative data from a community-level cross-sectional perception survey that was carried out from 2018 to 2019 to assess water users' willingness to accept reclaimed water as an alternative source of water for domestic purposes in Diepsloot township as well as the main factors influencing respondents' perceptions. Results of this study show that there is high acceptance of reclaimed water for domestic uses. Respondents with higher levels of education were more likely to accept reclaimed water than those with lower levels of education. The assumption that the water they were using was already mixed with wastewater also increased water user's acceptance levels. The results of the study suggest that governments, municipalities, and other key actors in the water and sanitation sector should first work towards building community trust and confidence when establishing water reclamation projects for domestic use, particularly through strategic communication and awareness-raising initiatives before they can expect widespread community acceptance. HIGHLIGHTS Exploration of public perception on acceptance of reclaimed water through community-based participatory approaches.; Lack of formal education had a significant negative influence on the acceptance of water reclamation.; Public education and awareness are critical for addressing misconceptions regarding water reclamation.; Building community trust and confidence when establishing water reclamation projects is key.;

Keywords

• alternative water sources
• public acceptance
• public perception
• reclaimed water
• water reclamation