This work presents an agent-based simulation of the potential adoption of small-scale green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) measures in an urban area. The model, framed in the theory of planned behavior, considers the cognitive biases of potential adopters to better understand human behavior as it relates to residential-scale infrastructure choices. The need to understand the rationality of human behavior and choices is evident in stormwater infrastructure planning and management, especially in the public sector which is often financially limited. Little attention is paid to utilizing such insights to explore the complex dynamics of the social-ecological systems surrounding stormwater infrastructure. Individuals’ decision-making process for the adoption of residential GSI (e.g. rain barrels) was simulated using agent-based modeling modified based on the well-known behavioral theory, the theory of planned behavior. Two cognitive biases, including loss aversion and status quo bias, were incorporated into the model. The data for the model primarily comes from a case study that surveyed 510 residents in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina about their knowledge and opinions on potential GSI implementation in the neighborhoods where they reside. The results suggest that cognitive biases have an impact on the people in each stage of the adoption process (i.e. learning, considering, refusing, and adopters), and the level of the communication networks among residents plays a role in encouraging adoption behaviors. The findings give an insight into how to develop better public engagement strategies to encourage public financial support for GSI.
