Abstract
Water security is becoming one of Malaysia’s greatest issues of concern. This study aims to assess the level of awareness of students on the importance of water resources and their water conservation practices at 10 selected residential colleges, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). 500 questionnaires were distributed in 10 residential colleges in UKM. The data collected from the questionnaires were analysed in computer by using the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The analysis conducted in the study include descriptive analysis (frequency, percentage, mean, median, crosstab) and correlation analysis by using Spearman’s Rho. The findings show that UKM students have high awareness level on water resource conservation. However, the implementation of water conservation practices is still low amongst the students. A comprehensive inventory, characterization and assessment of primary types of water-related energy consumption is recommended in future study to develop a comprehensive understanding of water-energy nexus as well as to enhance water conservation practices not only among university student but among the citizen of Malaysia as well.
Highlights
Water is fundamental for economic growth and to the environment
This study aims to provide new evidence of students’ awareness of water issues and their attitudes to water conservation, and how these relate to water saving behaviours
Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), located in Bangi, Selangor Malaysia to assess the level of awareness among the students on the importance of water resources and their water conservation practices
Summary
Water is fundamental for economic growth and to the environment. Water has been identified as one of the most important natural resources and somewhat different from the rest because it is viewed as a key to prosperity and wealth [1]. Malaysia faces increasing pressure on its water resources with its booming economy and growing population, these pressures are compounded by the impact of climate variability and accelerating climate change. While technological advances of water-based appliances offer increased efficiency, the way in which users interact with these appliances has a major effect on the water performance of the appliance. User interaction with water-based appliances is inextricably linked to the habitual use of water and users’ expectations of cleanliness, comfort, and relaxation [3]. To develop effective water conservation policies which aim to encourage water saving behavioural change, an understanding of users’ level of awareness, conservation behaviours is needed. This study aims to provide new evidence of students’ awareness of water issues and their attitudes to water conservation, and how these relate to water saving behaviours
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