Research and evidence
Understanding Water Wastage Across Our Campus.
What we observed, measured and heard on campus: the evidence base for WaterWatch.
How we gathered the evidence
A mixed method approach combining direct observation, measurement and interviews, so findings rest on more than one source.
- 1
Observe usage and wastage
Walk-throughs of selected campus locations to observe how water is used and where it is lost.
- 2
Baseline measurements over three days or more
Consistent daily readings at each location using a recorded method and unit.
- 3
Interview Estates/Facilities staff
Understand how problems are currently reported, prioritised and repaired.
- 4
Interview at least five students
Capture user experiences, habits and barriers to reporting.
- 5
Document verified problems
Photograph and log leaking taps, broken pipes, overflowing tanks and other confirmed issues.
What the research shows
Observations, interviews and findings from the group's fieldwork on campus.
Water consumption
Charts are drawn only from recorded readings. Values in m³ are converted to litres (1 m³ = 1,000 L), and baseline is compared with pilot only for the same location and measurement method.
Daily water consumption
Water readings by location
Reported water issues
Baseline versus pilot results
Measurement log
Campus water hotspot map
Locations the project team has verified on site, with the water problems reported there. Reporter details are never shown publicly.
Research photo gallery
Original photographs from the project, each with its title, caption, date and location.
Seeing the problem on campus
A short documentary of the campus water problem: observations, interviews and the everyday experiences of students and staff.