Applicability of the atmospheric water generation: the case of hotel industry in Sri Lanka

Abstract

The proliferation of plastic drinking water bottles poses significant environmental, economic, and social challenges globally. In response, many countries are seeking alternative methods to provide safe drinking water. Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs) have emerged as a promising solution, yet their implementation remains novel, particularly in countries like Sri Lanka. This paper explores the feasibility of implementing AWGs in the hotel industry in Sri Lanka to mitigate reliance on bottled water. Through a comprehensive literature review and quantitative research methodology including questionnaire surveys, the functional requirements, constraints, drivers, barriers, and strategies for AWG implementation were identified and analysed. The findings underscore the critical importance of factors such as low relative humidity, wide temperature range functionality, energy efficiency, water quality, and appropriate design in selecting AWGs. While drivers like higher efficiency, governmental support, and public awareness propel AWG adoption, barriers such as high initial investment, energy consumption, and mineral deficiency pose challenges. Strategies to overcome these barriers include lifecycle cost analysis, renewable energy integration, vendor selection, and mineral supplementation. The research contributes to understanding successful AWG implementation in the Sri Lankan hotel industry, addressing water bottle consumption's environmental and socio-economic impacts. This study highlights the urgency of transitioning to sustainable water solutions and provides practical insights for stakeholders to navigate the implementation of AWGs effectively.