Exploring People's Perceptions and Social Acceptance of Water Management Technology in Remote Regions

Water scarcity is not a distant concern confined to arid regions; it affects every corner of our planet. Growing populations, climate change-induced droughts, unsustainable agricultural practices, and inadequate water management have combined to create a perfect storm. The consequences of water scarcity are profound, impacting health, food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.

The urgency of addressing water scarcity cannot be overstated as it has emerged as a critical issue in several Southern European regions. The Mediterranean climate prevalent in Southern Europe, characterized by hot and dry summers, exacerbates the challenges associated with water scarcity. Historically, these regions have experienced periods of drought and limited water availability. However, the intensity and duration of these dry spells have amplified in recent years, leading to severe water stress and pushing local communities to the brink.

In response to the challenges posed by water scarcity in remote areas, Project O, a research initiative, has undertaken an innovative approach by integrating technology into water management modules, which are currently being showcased at four small-scale locations. Among the selected sites are water utilities in Puglia, Italy, and Almendralejo, Spain, a saltwater aqua facility in Eilat, Israel, and a textile company in Omis, Croatia. To evaluate the efficacy and significance of the undertaking, researchers from Project O collaborated with TGM Research to conduct a comprehensive study on the community's perspectives concerning water management and consumption. This collaborative effort aimed to gain valuable insights into the impact of the integrated technology and attitudes of local residents towards sustainable water practices.

Under such circumstance, online surveys would provide a more convenient and cost-effective method to reach a geographically dispersed target audience. It can be administered simultaneously to multiple participants, saving time compared to individual face-to-face interviews or paper-based surveys. This digital tools allow for easy customization and scalability. Researchers can tailor the survey design to suit the specific needs of the remote areas, including language variations and cultural sensitivities.

However, those areas may have lower levels of digital literacy, with residents having limited experience or familiarity with online platforms and survey tools. This can result in difficulties in navigating the online survey process, leading to lower response rates or incomplete responses. Individuals may be hesitant to engage with online surveys due to a lack of understanding about how their responses will be collected, stored, and used. Hence, building trust and ensuring confidentiality becomes crucial to encourage participation and obtain reliable responses.

The outcome of this project in specific remote provided valuable insights into water management practices and the community's perspectives on sustainable water usage. Through the utilization of online surveys and collaborative efforts with local stakeholders, the project aims to gather comprehensive data on water consumption patterns, attitudes towards water management, and the effectiveness of integrated technology solutions. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to water scarcity in these regions. The outcomes will inform decision-makers, policymakers, and water management organizations, enabling them to develop targeted strategies, policies, and interventions to address water scarcity issues, promote efficient water use, and support sustainable development in these specific areas.