Adoption Intention of Technology-Based Water Generation and Management Through W-TAM

Increasing concerns related to climate change and extensive use of water resources have depleted the available water for use. For water as an essential requirement for humans to carry onto their day-to-day chores, access and availability of water becomes the highest priority. Technology-based solutions support water generation, filtration, quality testing, water distribution, and many other areas. The present paper dwells on the user acceptance of these technologies. A conceptual model was developed through a literature review and named as Water-Technology Acceptance Model (W-TAM). The data was collected through a self-designed survey instrument to empirically test the proposed model. Analysis of this data was done with confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. It was observed that the actual use of these technologies depends on the ease of use and usefulness. Attitude to use them also matters. Although perceived risks and affordability did affect the use of W-TAM, trust, and regulatory aspects did not confirm their role in the adaptation of W-TAM. These findings will provide meaningful insights to the stakeholders and will help them in the practical implementation of these water-based technologies. This may also help service providers in the formulation of policies for technology-based water generation.