Evaluating the dynamic psychological and behavioural changes of water-saving in public buildings under effective interventions

This paper addresses the critical aspect of water conservation in public buildings within the
context of sustainable urban water resources management. While conventional approaches rely on pricing controls and water-saving appliances, this research emphasizes the key consideration of psychological factors influencing users’ willingness to conserve water. Through a survey involving 1,206 volunteers, an expanded theory of planned behaviour model is constructed and analysed to evaluate the impact of water-saving attitudes, subjective norms, self-efficacy, and perceived behavioural control on individuals’ water-saving behaviour. Intervention experiments conducted in three types of public buildings equipped with smart water meters unveil the nuanced dynamics of real-time water-saving behaviour and its responsiveness to external interventions. Findings underscore the collective influence of subjective norms, water-saving attitudes, self efficacy, and perceived behavioural control on individuals’ intentions and behaviours. Noteworthy is the observed time lag and diminishing impact of external interventions, where economic, feedback, and subjective norms interventions prove more effective. This study not only contributes a theoretical framework but also provides practical insights, emphasizing the need for consistent and targeted external interventions. Practitioners, decision-makers, and stakeholders are urged to recognize the profound impact of users’ psychological factors on public water-saving behaviour and strategically employ interventions for sustained positive outcomes