A systemic methodology for the reduction of water consumption in rural areas

Flórez, María Paula; Ramírez, María Catalina; Durán, Luisa Fernanda Payán; Peralta, Mauricio; Acero, Andrés

doi:10.1108/k-10-2017-0406

Cited by 6 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 21 publications

(17 reference statements)

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“…This loop shows how engineering practices tend to reduce the problems in the environment, and these concerns foster these kinds of practices. This loop can be associated with sustainability movements inside engineering [25].…”

Section: Social Concerns-engineering Practices-social Concernsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Analyzing Sustainable Practices in Engineering Projects: A Systemic Approach

Acero

Cajiao

2023

Sustainability

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The work of an engineer involves the conceptualization, design, and implementation of new and improved artifacts. However, what sets engineering apart from other professions is the direct responsibility of engineers to think critically and design innovative solutions to solve complex problems in social systems. Unfortunately, the solutions often do not consider the dynamics of the environment or the cultures that will receive them, leading to obsolescence due to the lack of technical knowledge of maintenance and repair. This exacerbates the disruptive power of technology in culture and society, leading to a gap in engineering education that needs to be addressed. Critical theories attempt to reformulate the teaching and practice of engineering in social-environmental contexts of vulnerability, utilizing systemic models to anticipate solutions based on possible scenarios. However, these theories do not consider the mental models of professional engineers, relying mostly on educational studies. To address this gap, this article explores a novel approach to the problem of sustainability mindset in engineering by understanding the characteristics and structures of engineering systems of practice and conveying it through causal loop diagrams. The results identify causal loops that reinforce or affect the application of sustainable practices, which can be used as leverage points within the systems of practice structure to improve the performance and interest of engineering students in sustainable development endeavors and promote more professionals working with a sustainable mindset.

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Section: Social Concerns-engineering Practices-social Concernsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Analyzing Sustainable Practices in Engineering Projects: A Systemic Approach

Acero

Cajiao

2023

Sustainability

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“…Despite this, efforts to reduce water consumption have been initiated in many regions throughout the world. The importance of adopting relevant water saving technologies to help reduce potable water use is highlighted in a practical study carried out in a Columbian rural area (Fl orez et al, 2019). More locally, Singapore's National Water Agency (2019) has encouraged water conservation and has conducted an extensive study of water saving strategies with one key aspect focussing on the application of a smart water grid to provide real-time monitoring of water quality and conservation measures.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Water efficiency in Malaysian commercial buildings: a green initiative and cost–benefit approach

Zaini

Kwong

Jack

2020

IJBPA

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PurposeThe demand for potable water increases with population growth, given its role in sustaining life. As part of a wider approach to ensuring sustainable provision, this has prompted a number of carefully formulated water efficiency improvement plans for buildings, one of the highest water-consuming sectors. This paper presents a detailed analysis of water efficiency potential for a multi-storey commercial complex and an office building in central Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, a detailed analysis of the water use and efficiency of the water fittings was carried out. Important data such as historical water use and details of water fittings were acquired during a field survey. A series of water flow rate tests were conducted at the selected buildings and each of the water systems was analysed separately, using the criteria of water efficiency stipulated by a locally applied green building tool. A comparison of water consumption before and after the improvement plan was then made.FindingsFindings from the field surveys indicate that only some of the water fittings were certified with recognised efficiency ratings, which suggests a good opportunity for improvement. The proposed replacement of more-efficient fittings could potentially improve the obtainable green credit points by at least 10 from a maximum of 15. A cost–benefit analysis for a water fitting replacement scheme shows that the estimated payback period is less lengthy for the larger commercial building due to the higher potential savings.Practical implicationsStrategies for improvements in water efficiency for existing non-residential buildings are provided in this paper. The same water consumption analysis procedure can be used by maintenance engineers and other practitioners in building assessments where water efficiency and sustainability in building operation are of concern.Originality/valueThis case study responds to the need for efficient use of freshwater and provides insight into the water efficiency opportunities for commercial buildings. The potential cost savings for replacements of inefficient water fittings have been analysed using a green building tool as a guide. This has not been extensively analysed in previous studies.

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