Perceptions and attitudes towards the quality of drinking water in two communities in Region 6, Guyana

In Guyana, potable water is supplied by a single national utility company, but increasing consumer concerns about its quality have led to a growing reliance on bottled water, provided by private processors, for drinking. This study examined consumers’ perceptions and attitudes toward potable tap water supplied by the national water utility provider, compared with bottled water supplied by private water processors in two communities, one urban and one rural, along East-Berbice Corentyne, Region 6, Guyana. One hundred respondents were surveyed, using a structured questionnaire consisting of demographic items and perception-based questions measured on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (Version 23) and presented in graphs, tables, and descriptive statistics. Findings revealed a preference for bottled water as the primary source of drinking water, particularly in the urban community. Most respondents perceived the potable water supplied by the national utility company as poor in quality, citing concerns about contamination, taste, discoloration, and sediments. In contrast, bottled water was generally perceived as better in quality, although respondents expressed doubts about the adequacy of quality testing conducted by private processors. Overall, participants agreed on the need for improved water quality monitoring, stricter licensing of private water processors, and greater accountability from the national provider. These findings underscore the importance consumer perceptions and their role in influencing water policy and management.