Water-saving Strategies in the Face of Water Shortage Crisis: A Case Study of Science Museum in Taiwan

Abstract

In the past two years, Taiwan has rarely experienced the typhoons that usually bring her abundant rainfall. The southern region, in particular, is facing a severe crisis of water shortage. Meanwhile, the National Science and Technology Museum (NSTM), in Kaohsiung, Southern Taiwan, has launched several exhibitions and activities, seeking to attract large numbers of visitors. These events consume much water, in the midst of a water crisis. In the face of such a crisis, water-saving strategies are critical. Thus, using qualitative interviews and analyses, this research found that water-saving activities organized by NSTM were effective in reminding people to conserve water. Our analysis also shows that the strategy of building a rainwater harvesting system as an alternative water source can save as much as 4.94% of tap water. These achievements make the NSTM initiative a good exemplar of water-saving strategies.