A Panel Data Analysis of Residential Water Demand in a Mediterranean Tourist Region: the Case of Sardinia

STATZU, VANIA;STRAZZERA, ELISABETTA

2010-01-01

---

Abstract

Authors focus on the impact of tourism on the host community and, in particular, on residential water demand. The aim of the chapter is to estimate the effect of the presence of tourists on unofficial structures on the demand of water in the domestic sector, together with other factors influencing the residential demand for water. By analysing a data set concerning water consumption in Sardinia, the authors show that in regions where an important share of tourism is accommodated in holiday homes, the average level of residential water consumption is significantly inflated by the presence of tourists. This is an element that should be taken into account when comparing regional or district consumption levels. Higher average consumption levels may be due to less responsible consumption behaviour, or lower efficiency in the maintenance of water infrastructures