Community response to climate-resilient water sources varies significantly around the world. Research commissioned by the Australian Water Recycling Centre of Excellence reveals that long-term planning, extensive stakeholder engagement, and a legislative program is essential.
Research highlights that successful stakeholder engagement programs:
There were three components to this research.
Research by Victoria University found factors influencing community acceptance of potable water reuse include the quality and consistency of the community outreach, levels of water scarcity and perceived levels of environmental benefit. Their five reports address a key influence.
Perceptions and barriers
Community views on risk and safety
Customer attitudes by segment
Impact of water scarcity on acceptance of potable reuse
Engaging with culturally diverse communities
An investigation into successful community engagement programs, conducted by the University of NSW, Australia, synthesises qualitative research results and implications for community engagement practices, and the design of media strategies.
Australian Water Futures: Rethinking Community Engagement
Water Recycling and Media: Guidelines for Communication
Water Recycling and the Public: Guidelines for Community Engagement
A study by Griffith University and The University of Queensland identifies enablers and barriers to effective risk communication, plus strategies to deal with the challenges in building confidence in potable water reuse projects.
Enhancing Risk Communication
Lessons learnt from national and international case studies