7: THE POTENTIAL FOR RESIDENTIAL WATER CONSERVATION IN DHAKA, BANGLADESH

Population and economic growth are increasing the demand for water, while climate change, pollution and the over-extraction of groundwater are decreasing the world's supply of fresh water. While technological and management reforms can increase supply, sustainable development calls for water conservation. This paper explores the potential of residential water conservation in Dhaka (Bangladesh) with particular focus on the roles of prices, regulatory policies and water-efficient fixtures. Primary data collected from 60 households in Dhaka in 2010 reflects that on average, households spend 1.15% of their monthly expenditures on water bills with a median of BDT 350/month (USD 4.40/month)¹ [note: The exchange rate is USD 1 = BDT 79.54 (2011 average exchange rate, World Development Indicators, The World Bank).]. A typical household of 4–6 people consumes about 2000 liters/day. Water conservation is a neglected concept in Dhaka, and despite the wide availability of efficient fixtures in the market, very few households have installed them. Under this scenario, more accurate pricing through 100% metering, implementation of regulations and greater awareness are necessary to promote domestic water conservation using water-efficient fixtures.