The COVID-19 pandemic and urban water consumption: A systematic review

Contenido principal del artículo

Lígia Conceição Tavares
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3435-0896
Juan Martin Bravo
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5585-1257
Luisa Lehdermann
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8947-8876
Ian Rocha de Almeida
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6916-3295

Resumen

The present article analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on water consumption in urban areas, using the ROSES methodology for systematic literature review. A total of 69 articles were selected that examined the impact of the pandemic on water consumption, considering different data collection methods and case studies. Residential consumption increased due to more time spent at home, while commercial and industrial consumption decreased. Socioeconomic factors influenced consumption, but climatic variables did not show a significant relationship. The impact on public establishments varied, with some studies reporting an increase and others a decrease in consumption. The analysis highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to water resource management, especially during crises like the pandemic. The results emphasize the need for technologies such as smart meters and advanced data analysis to improve efficiency in water resource management during and after global crises. The research concludes that efficient management and public policies are essential to ensure water security in times of emergency.

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[1]
Tavares, L.C. et al. 2026. The COVID-19 pandemic and urban water consumption: A systematic review. Revista AIDIS de ingeniería y ciencias ambientales: Investigación, desarrollo y práctica. 19, 1 (Apr. 2026), 64–86. DOI:https://doi.org/10.22201/iingen.0718378xe.2026.19.1.89789.

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