Description
For the last 10 years, the American Southwest has been experiencing the most persistent drought conditions on record. Based on future climactic predictions, there is a dire need to reduce water usage within Phoenix. An environmentally responsible behavior such as low water use landscaping (xeriscaping), has been shown to reduce household water consumption by 40%-70%. While much is known regarding the relationship between socio-demographics and xeriscaping choices, the influence of other variables remains to be explored. Using data from the 2017 Phoenix Area Social Survey, this study investigates the influence of two additional variables - ecological worldview and place identity on xeriscaping choice. Data was analyzed using two models - Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Linear Probability Model (LPM). Ecological worldview and place identity, along with income, ethnicity, and gender, were all found to be positively related to xeriscape preference. Additionally, when compared to the LPM, the traditional OLS was found to still be the most robust and appropriate model when measuring landscape preference. Finally, results suggested that programs to foster identity with the local desert mountain parks may help to increase xeriscaping in the Valley and thus lower residential water use.
Details
Title
- Exploring resident's xeriscaping preference: the influence of ecological world view and place identity
Contributors
- Sampson, Marena (Author)
- Budruk, Megha (Thesis advisor)
- Larson, Kelli (Committee member)
- Gall, Melanie (Committee member)
- Arizona State University (Publisher)
Date Created
The date the item was original created (prior to any relationship with the ASU Digital Repositories.)
2018
Subjects
Resource Type
Collections this item is in
Note
- thesisPartial requirement for: M.S., Arizona State University, 2018
- bibliographyIncludes bibliographical references (pages 65-79)
- Field of study: Community resources and development
Citation and reuse
Statement of Responsibility
by Marena Sampson