Social Perspectives on Sustainability Within the Global Desalination Industry – A Q-Methodology Study

Keywords: Desalination, sustainability, Q-method, social perspectives, urban water security
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 11:20 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 12:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 9

Abstract

As a result of the rising demand on water resources, many regions are deciding to pursue desalination technology as part of their water portfolio. Globally, desalination capacity is increasing at a rapid pace. Due to the size and cost of desalination facilities, these infrastructure projects have significant impact on the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of the areas they operate in. In this study, Q-method was utilized to investigate the perspectives of actors within the desalination industry and examine perceptions and understandings of global water sector actors regarding how they envision their role and technologies in sustainability goals. Through this process, dominant perspectives on these topics were revealed. These perspectives provide further understanding about the emerging global desalination industry which can assist policymakers in the decision-making process related to this sector and inform global desalination actors on how to improve sustainability engagement.