A Statistical Approach to the Impact of Qualitative Variables on Water Consumption in Schools

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the relationship between qualitative structural, behavioral and operational variables (continuous, discrete and binary) and water consumption in school environments.   Theoretical framework: School managers lack adequate material resources and qualified information to effectively implement these practices, especially in developing countries.   Method: An exploratory and correlational analysis was carried out between structural, operational and behavioral variables and water consumption in 911 schools located in Bahia, Brazil. In addition, consumption was estimated using predictive models based on ARIMA.   Results and conclusion: The maximum consumption values ranged from 52.98 to 95.65 liters per student per day. A significant positive correlation was identified between the variables "Built-up area" and "IDEB Index" for 26 schools located in the suburbs of the city of Salvador, Bahia. ARIMA predictive models can be considered adequate as long as the variability of the data is not too great. Periodic on-site inspections, training of maintenance staff and dialog with school managers were effective in reducing water consumption   Research implications: The introduction of practices for the rational use of natural resources during school education is certainly an important initiative to ensure a less environmentally unsustainable society.   Originality/value: The study provided unprecedented information on the relationship between neglected variables such as "IDEB" and water consumption in schools. These results may help in the adoption of measures and practices that effectively promote citizen education aimed at preserving natural resources.