Sustainable Water Conservation as Climate Change Adaptation: A Study of Hotels and Office Buildings in Accra

Abstract

Sustainable Water Conservation as Climate Change Adaptation: A Study of Hotels and Office Buildings in Accra examines the urgent need for effective water conservation measures in the face of climate-induced water scarcity, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas. The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach with a sample of six hotels and three office buildings. The study was underpinned by the Norm Activation Model (NAM) and the Technological Acceptance Model (TAM), with data acquired through semi-structured interviews and thematically analysed. Findings reveal a pervasive awareness of climate change and its impact on water resources; yet many hotels and office buildings prioritize financial savings over adaptive water-conservation strategies. These facilities employ several technology and process-based water-saving measures, highlighting a preference among hotels for technological solutions, contrasted to the more customer engagement-driven techniques identified in office buildings. Financial constraints, regulations, and a lack of service providers were also noted as impediments to the greater implementation of water conservation techniques. The research provides helpful recommendations for hotels, business buildings, and policymakers. It underscores the need to align climate change awareness with pragmatic water management practices to foster sustainability and resilience in urban contexts. Further, the study underlines the need for greater research into the hurdles to implementing water conservation technologies and the long-term efficacy of established measures. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how climate consciousness can be integrated into water management practices to enhance environmental sustainability.