Analysis and optimization of water resource use in school buildings in san juan, argentina

Abstract

This study analyzes water resource use in two schools in the San Juan Metropolitan Area and proposes improvement strategies to reduce consumption in an arid context, contributing to water efficiency. A mixed-methods (qualitative and quantitative) approach was applied, based on the Environmental Assessment and Rating Methodology, structured in three stages: documentary analysis of sustainability certification models for schools, on-site technical audits of the selected buildings, and formulation of optimization proposals, complemented by a simplified cost-benefit analysis to assess their economic viability. The results show poor water management performance in both schools, with a lack of monitoring, water reuse, and efficient irrigation, although significant potential for annual savings of 4.1 million liters was identified at the Central University School and 11.8 million liters at School No. 1 in Rawson. Furthermore, the economic analysis identified that low-cost, rapidly implementable measures offer the best cost-effectiveness, while those requiring greater investment acquire strategic importance due to their significant impact on water conservation. This work adds value by validating the Environmental Assessment and Qualification Methodology as a diagnostic, planning, and prioritization tool for interventions in arid contexts, filling a gap in studies on water efficiency in schools. In conclusion, it is demonstrated that the implementation of simple and economically viable measures can generate a significant impact on reducing consumption, strengthening sustainable water management and environmental education in schools.