Economic Analysis of Household Water Consumption and Wasteful Behavior in Greater Jakarta, Indonesia

Continuous population growth has increased the demand for clean water; however, its availability remains limited, raising concerns regarding wasteful usage, additional household costs, and reduced availability. This study analyzes the factors influencing wasteful household water consumption in Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) using the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and an expenditure approach. A survey of 304 Jabodetabek respondents was conducted to assess household water consumption behaviors and was analyzed using SEM-PLS. Respondents were distributed evenly across Jabodetabek, and they had varying water consumption characteristics and sources, including PDAM, wells, a combination of both, and differing income levels. The SEM-PLS results indicated that subjective and religious norms significantly and positively influenced individuals’ intention to conserve water. However, the intention to conserve water did not directly impact water waste behavior; other factors, such as financial capability, water channel damage, and additional equipment, significantly affected water waste behavior. Social norms strongly influenced the intention to save water, whereas economic factors and water infrastructure conditions had a greater impact on wasteful behavior than self-control. Economically, the ideal monthly household expenditure was IDR 171,000, but the actual average was IDR 214,210, indicating a waste of IDR 43,210 per household per month.