ABSTRACT
A major challenge of modern society is to find solutions for dilemmas involving the distribution of limited natural resources such as water and energy. These problems are the result of an ever growing mismatch between resource supplies and demands. Whether due to a real shortage or to excessive usage, it is clear that long-term strategies are needed to cope with these problems, and these strategies should focus on changing resource consumption patterns (Stern, 1992). Among the various solutions available, the implementation of technological devices, such as meters for the use of water, gas, or electricity, seems to be a promising strategy to promote conservation structurally (Crabb, 1992). Little is understood, however, about the longer-term psychological effects of such interventions. So far, conservation programs have been designed primarily in response to an immediate resource crisis like a water shortage (see e.g., Berk et al., 1980).
