Abstract:
There is a broad consensus in literature that effective utilisation of natural resources in any industry
greatly influences sustainability of built environment. Hence, better management strategies of water
began to emerge in all sectors; thus, different dimensions are in need to assess different industries.
With this scenario, water sustainability on construction sites is one significant area, which demands
the attention of construction stakeholders. Today many construction projects survive on potable water,
and many strategies are available that can reduce the amount of water consumed by the construction
industry. Water hierarchy is one strategy proposed for construction sites to reduce potable water
consumption and encourage alternative water sources within the site. Literature and preliminary
interviews further support identification of new 3R principles: Regulations, Responsibility, and
Rewards that can influence on better water management on construction sites.
Therefore, purpose of this paper is to examine the applicability and implementation of 3R principles in
conjunction with six stages (6R) of water hierarchy to improve efficient water use on construction
projects in Sri Lanka. The study adopted triangulation convergence mixed method approach, and data
collection involved case studies and a structured survey. Qualitative data is presented as narratives
and quotations while quantitative data is presented as descriptive statistics. The results revealed that
all factors were considered as ‘applicable’ and the possibility of implementing them on construction
sites. Reuse and recycle were identified as the least applicable, and are rarely practised on sites, if it is
not initially identified as a mandatory process. Experience and commitment of individual staff and
costs are identified as important drivers on implication of each 9R principle. New 3R principles were
recognised as supportive policies to implement all six existing stages of water hierarchy. Finally, the
paper discusses the extended water hierarchy model developed for construction industry.
