S07 - Session O4 - Human and technological dimensions of efficient water use in water limited urban environments

Authors: Rolston St Hilaire *

Human factors along with technology may drive the greatest gains in efficient water use in water limited environments. Increasing urbanization, climate change, and shifts in food production patterns could mean that urban environments may emerge as the more important frontier for water conservation. We have shown that reusing water in urban environments is an ideal way to extend existing water supplies. However, reuse water engenders greater management inputs to mitigate soil salinization, health-related problems, and the loss of ecosystem services. While many human factors influence water use in managed urban landscapes, our research showed that the potential for water shortage is the most important factor that will drive humans to reduce water use. Our research indicates that urban residents generally settle for the type of urban landscape they prefer and barriers to changing their type of landscape include access to resources and information about alternate choices. The use of water application technologies, such as Smart irrigation technologies, may not always guarantee efficient water use in managed landscapes. However, our data shows that up to 53% water savings were realized when Smart irrigation technologies were used properly.