A design thinking approach to policy interventions for nudging responsible consumption

The importance of access to safe drinking water for human health is well established. However, concerns regarding the quality and reliability of public water supplies have been associated with increased consumption of bottled water, which is often discussed in relation to plastic waste and environmental stress. This study explores whether public infrastructure interventions, specifically the installation of Water Vending Machines (WVMs) by Indian Railways, may function as elements of choice architecture that influence consumption preferences. Drawing on Expectation Confirmation Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior, the study examines constructs that may shape passengers’ behavioral intentions toward WVM use, including expectation confirmation, environmental beliefs, consumer attitudes and trust, perceived usefulness, and risk perception. Using a Design Thinking approach, the research employs an empathize–define–ideate framework to generate commuter insights, identify pain points, and explore potential infrastructural and informational interventions. The study does not attempt to establish causal relationships or measure environmental outcomes. Instead, it develops design-led qualitative insights that suggest how infrastructure design and its presentation may shape user perceptions, attitudes, and stated intentions. These insights are synthesized into policy-oriented recommendations for Indian Railways. The study contributes to discussions on infrastructure as a potential behavioral nudge and highlights the role of Design Thinking as a complementary approach for theory development and contextual validation.