Alternative Household Water Systems: Perceptions of Knowledge and Trust Among Residents of South East Queensland

Abstract

This study uses discourse analysis to examine the ways urban households in South East Queensland (N=10) talk about water issues and decentralized (i.e., on-site, separate from the grid) water systems, as well as their trust in new water technology. Analysis of talk and language showed that participants constructed the concept of “water” as a precious resource and described an underlying water culture in which interactions with water resources were embedded. Participants often described themselves as being accepting of decentralized technology, in particular, rainwater tanks, but also provided strong rationalizations for why their homes did not have such systems installed. Important knowledge gaps were found to exist relevant to water issues affecting urban regions, despite participants constructing themselves as highly aware of these issues. Perceptions of mistrust and limited confidence in the governance of alternative water systems were highlighted as a concern. These findings demonstrated various cognitive barriers to the adoption of decentralized systems and alternative water technologies, which has implications for widespread use of new water initiatives.