A Study of Water Use Habits and Influencing Factors among the Population of Faisalabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Across the globe, the issue of water scarcity is escalating into a significant crisis. More than two billion individuals do not have access to safely managed drinking water, and almost half of the global population faces severe water scarcity for a minimum of one month each year. The current scenario is anticipated to deteriorate as a result of increasing population numbers, the impacts of climate change, and inadequate water management strategies. Some projections indicate that by the year 2050, billions more individuals may experience water stress. An examination of water usage patterns within the distinct urban environments of Faisalabad indicates that a multitude of factors—including education, household size, income, housing type, age, and nationality—significantly influence household behaviors regarding water utilization and conservation preferences. The accessibility of water has become a significant worldwide issue in the 21st century, due to the rapid increase in population, development, and the effects of climate change. The accessibility of water resources has been profoundly influenced by these elements, particularly concerning household consumption, leading to a possible water crisis. The objective of this study is to assess individuals' behavior in relation to the consumption of clean water. The research was carried out employing a quantitative methodology alongside a purposive sampling technique. A total of

150 households were surveyed. While attempts were undertaken to guarantee participation from individuals across various income levels in the survey, the selection of households was conducted in a random manner. Furthermore, surveys and interviews were carried out with households that depended on a piped supply as their main source of water. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) serves as a framework for examining the ways in which residents' attitudes towards water conservation, their understanding of social norms related to water usage, and their perceived capability to conserve water impact their actual behaviors concerning water consumption. There exists a significant negative correlation between the independent variables, which include Household Income, Large Family Size, Family Type, and the Amount of Water Utilized for Various Activities, and the dependent variable, which is the Availability of Drinking Water. The examination further revealed a notable relationship between the key element (Awareness regarding water) and the outcome variable (Availability of Drinking Water). The findings underscore the considerable influence of socioeconomic elements on water security concerning both indoor and outdoor pursuits. The availability of water is a fundamental necessity that greatly influences the overall quality of life, especially in relation to drinking water. The results of this study hold significant importance for water operators, enabling them to efficiently oversee and inform households regarding sustainable practices in water usage and conservation via focused outreach initiatives. Access to fundamental water resources is essential for both individuals and communities to enhance their overall quality of life. Water conservation practices, accessibility to clean water, attitudes towards consumption, intentions related to behavior, and patterns of behavior.