O efeito da medição individualizada sobre o consumo de água em condomínios de João Pessoa - PB

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effects of individualized water metering on consumption by comparing two groups of residential buildings: one equipped with individual meters in each apartment and another relying solely on collective metering. The research was based on daily per capita consumption data collected over a 21 month monitoring period across 18 vertical residential condominiums in the city of João Pessoa, Brazil. To analyze variance at a 5% significance level, the method proposed by Bussab and Morettin (2010) was applied, which is appropriate for comparing two sample means. The results showed that condominiums with individual water metering presented a 15.00% reduction in consumption compared to those with collective metering. According to the socioeconomic standard of the buildings, the reductions were 12.28% in high standard condominiums, 13.70% in medium-standard, and 19.33% in low standard. These findings highlight that individualized metering serves as an economic and behavioral stimulus, encouraging more conscious consumption practices. In addition to the positive environmental impacts, such as water conservation and reduced sewage generation, the system also promotes fairness in billing and greater transparency in condominium management. Furthermore, it aligns with current legislation (Law No. 13.312/2016) and sustainability guidelines recommended by organizations such as the United Nations. It is concluded that individualized metering represents an effective strategy for rationalizing water use, with the potential to contribute to urban sustainability while fostering greater social equity and efficiency in the management of water resources in vertical condominiums.