UNDERSTANDING CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR TOWARDS WATER USAGE EFFICIENCY IN TERENGGANU

Abstract

Climate change, population increase, and industrial activity are all putting a strain on water resources, emphasizing the importance of good demand management. These solutions necessitate a thorough understanding of household water consumption patterns and behavioral inclinations, especially in water-scarce countries. This study looks into household water consumption habits and identifies the primary drivers of water demand in Terengganu, Malaysia's east coast. The study's goal is to look at home water use trends in Terengganu and discover socioeconomic factors that influence water demand in the region. Correlation and multiple regression models were used to examine survey data obtained from 271 households from December 2021 to February 2022. The correlation study indicated strong links between daily household water use and socioeconomic characteristics such as gender, education level, income, dwelling type, number of children, and marital status. The multiple regression analysis revealed that characteristics such as education level, number of children, and family size all had a significant impact on water quality, odor, and taste. These findings have important implications for water utilities and policymakers. Understanding the underlying elements influencing water consumption behavior allows for the development of successful water demand management strategies that promote conservation and optimize water use. The study leads to a better knowledge of household water use patterns and serves as a platform for future policy formulation targeted at ensuring Terengganu's water resources are sustainable.