Water demand management and the quest for sustainability |
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| Authors: | Sam Trowsdale Caitlin Golder Karen Fisher Gary Brierley |
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| Institution: | School of Environnment, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand |
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| Abstract: | This paper problematises positivist framings of water demand management (WDM) that define the average‐water‐user. Through a situated, case‐study account undertaken in suburban Auckland, we highlight variable social and cultural underpinnings of domestic water use. Activities that are commonly the focus of WDM are shown to be embedded elements of life around which relationships, affects and futures are woven. As a consequence, myopically focusing on the technical–managerial mediation of what are socionatural relations reduces prospects to achieve intended policy outcomes. Reframing WDM as a hydrosocial process provides a basis for water providers to develop more culturally appropriate water management. |
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| Keywords: | big water household hydrosocial little water urban water water diary |
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