Unveiling the “efficiency paradox” in the irrigation sector: a multi-methods exploration of behavioral aspects

Abstract

Governments and local irrigation associations across the globe have invested billions of euros in technology reform programs to increase irrigation efficiency. Empirical evidence suggests that increases in water efficiency do not always lead to water conservation due to so-called rebound effects. This study addresses the question of the extent to which social construction of technology and collective action dynamics within irrigation associations mediate those effects. Methodologically, the study combines survey analysis with an experiment, and tests the hypothesis that different collective constructions around technology and its use, as well as mental accounts of water savings can affect the way water stemming from efficiency increases is ultimately used. As shown, some of the results confirm the hypothesis but with nuances.