Simulation Model to Assess Household Water Saving Devices in Bogota City

This paper examines the Bogotá River basin in the Andes of Colombia, which is in a vulnerable state. In the medium term, it would be difficult to meet the growing demand for water due to population growth and the risk of low rainfall. Therefore, this paper aims to determine the contribution to water system sustainability by measuring the impact of demand management measures to reduce water wastage through the adoption of household water-saving devices. This is an interesting topic, as few demand management measures have been applied in the Bogotá River Basin. In this sense, a system dynamics model has been developed to simulate the urban water system and the effect on water conservation of demand management measures that promote efficient use. The results show that water-saving taps are the most efficient micro-component, achieving up to 21% of water savings per year per household, while eco-efficient washing machines allow savings of up to 17% and toilets 7%. Consequently, after years of El Niño phenomenon, delays in works to expand supply or continued growth in demand, the water system could avoid a deficit situation with the policy of installing water-saving taps in households.