Rainwater and Greywater as Alternative Water Resources: Public Perception and Acceptability. Case Study in Twelve Countries in the World

Abstract

The aim of the paper was to identify factors that influence the public perception of the possibility of replacing tap water with rainwater or greywater. In order to check whether a geographical location and water resources of a region affect the public's attitude toward alternative water systems, the surveys were carried out among respondents from twelve countries. The surveys identified the level of awareness among respondents about their country's water resources, ways to save water at home, and their attitudes to rainwater and greywater as additional sources of water in a building. The results showed that only 39% of respondents would not be afraid to use treated greywater in their household. The situation was better in case of replacement of tap water with rainwater, where more than 54% of the respondents were not concerned. The use of alternative sources of water for body washing and cleaning works was the biggest concern among the respondents. In case of greywater recycling, this was indicated by 56% (personal hygiene) and 34% (cleaning works) of respondents. People in the countries with low water resources view alternative water sources more favourably. They are also more aware of, and more likely to accept the use of rainwater or greywater even in uses where they will come into contact with the human body. The research also showed that for more than 3/4 of respondents, funding to install these systems would encourage their use in their household.