Strategy development for domestic water use reduction in special economic zone of Thailand through water user perception and factor analysis

Abstract

Ensuring a reliable water supply is critical for the success of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Development Plan, a pivotal initiative aimed at boosting the country’s GDP. To address water limitations and high activity density in the pilot area, the EEC has implemented a policy to reduce water usage across all sectors, with a specific emphasis on the domestic sector. However, the complex nature of consumption patterns and diverse perspectives among domestic user present challenges to implementing effective top-down strategies for water management. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to investigate residents' and service sectors' perspectives on water management in the EEC. A questionnaire administered to 621 respondents, coupled with Principal Components Analysis, identified key factors influencing domestic water management: 1) the efficiency of water management and services, 2) community awareness and participation in addressing water issues, and 3) access to clean water services. The findings revealed that respondents perceived an unstable accessibility to clean water and services, coupled with low participation in water management. A notable inconsistency arose between respondents' perception of their water consumption and actual water use calculated from billing records, indicating an underestimation of their own water usage. With an average water consumption exceeding 200 L per capita per day, this poses a significant challenge compared to regional norms. In discussions with communities, participating in efficient water usage strategies was found to be more challenging than reduction-focused approaches. Moreover, there was a recognition and acceptance of wastewater recycling, contingent on water quality and appropriate usage objectives.