Development of an Instrument Based on the EGCI Model to Measure Sustainable Water Use Practices among Citizens
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Abstract
At present, residential water conservation behaviors are essential to prevent the growing global scarcity of water resources. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence citizens’ intention to adopt sustainable water care practices, integrating the variables of the EGCI model under a responsible consumption perspective. To this end, an online survey was conducted with 450 participants in Mexico, one of the countries facing a severe water crisis. The instrument was specifically designed for this study, taking into account relevant variables associated with the EGCI acronym (Economic consumption, Sustainable water management, Moral commitment, and Intention to adopt sustainable practices). Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that moral commitment has a direct and positive influence on both sustainable water management and the intention to implement responsible practices. Likewise, it was confirmed that the perception of reduced costs associated with water consumption has a direct and positive impact on more efficient water management. These findings highlight the importance of continuing to educate citizens not only about responsible water savings but also about offering alternatives for the sustainable management of this resource. Furthermore, they support the design of targeted campaigns aimed at different sectors of society to modify consumption patterns, as well as the use of technological tools to reduce waste and improve water-use efficiency.
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