Technical and non-technical strategies for water efficiency in buildings

The sustainability of the built environment requires the integration of social, policy, institutional, technical/engineering, environmental, financial approaches. Studies have shown that there is no single magic wand for ensuring that the footprint and use of buildings have the least physical and environmental impact. This chapter’s focus includes the engineering aspects of domestic water products and the related socio-technical factors; e.g. user needs and requirements, necessary to achieve a holistic water efficiency in buildings strategy. With its unique take on better technical and non-technical integration for water efficiency, the chapter combines product design, architecture, social and technical paradigms. Fittings and fixtures are evaluated based on the design and regulatory benchmarks, installation and operational issues, as well as performance and use factors. A case example is presented as good practice and to highlight user responsiveness, opportunities and limitations of technological and engineering solutions for the delivery of sustainable water use in buildings. Results draw attention to the fact that the uptake of new domestic water saving products and devices is reliant on consumers’ willingness to purchase, install and use correctly. In conclusion, effective water efficiency strategies go beyond advancement in engineering and technologically innovative solutions. It extends to improved user engagement, raised public awareness and the implementation of effective policy and market/marketing strategies.