Feasibility Study of Water Saving Measures in Higher Education Buildings: A Case Study of the University of Aveiro

Abstract

Aims: Evaluate the water savings potential and financial viability of water saving measures in in higher education buildings Study Design: The study follows an observational approach to characterize the current performance of existing buildings in terms of water consumption and evaluate the potential for increasing water efficiency. Place and Duration of Study: Buildings of the Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Communication and Arts, Environment and Planning, and Mathematics Departments and the Pedagogic Complex of the University of Aveiro, Portugal, between May 2013 and July 2014. Methodology: Water efficiency audits complemented with limited monitoring and simulation of investment scenarios. Results: The payback period of the investment required to implement the measures was found to be less than 7 months in all the cases, with average water savings potential of 28% and ranging from 9% up to 37%. Conclusion: Water savings measures are attractive solutions for university buildings in Portugal, particularly the older ones, because of their environmental and financial performance and the low investment required.