Percepción de la calidad del agua en Boyacá

Abstract

The user’s perception of drinking water quality is a personal assessment of the characteristics and properties of the water supplied to the household for consumption and daily use. This assessment is based on organoleptic factors such as taste, colour and smell, as well as related aspects in perceived quality, safety, confidence and possible health impacts, which are related to previous consumer experiences. Essentially, this is an opinion formed from the appearance of drinking water and perception of possible risks associated with its consumption. For the study on the perception of drinking water quality, surveys were applied directly to users in the municipalities of Duitama, Ramiriquí, Sogamoso, Tunja, Tibaná and Ventaquemada, in the department of Boyacá. These surveys were designed around the above factors, thus providing descriptive statistics and analysis. Technical knowledge about drinking water quality is key to fostering a more informed perception and understanding of factors influencing user behaviour, particularly their confidence in and use of tap water for human consumption. Community involvement in monitoring drinking water quality is essential, as community members are the main beneficiaries of a clean and safe water supply. The research aims to develop a more comprehensive approach to the service of water supplied for consumption, assessing potential quality risks and ensuring that public opinion is taken into account throughout the entire drinking water life cycle.