By constructing a three-dimensional analytical framework of subject-tool-theme, and using text mining techniques and social network analysis methods, this study conducted in-depth research on the evolution characteristics of China’s water conservation policies from 1988 to 2023, revealing the subject cooperation mechanism, tool matching methods, and theme related effects of water conservation policies. This research has found that China’s water conservation work has entered the stage of systematic promotion, but there are still problems such as low average policy effectiveness, low coordination among policy entities, imbalanced structure of policy tool use, and uneven distribution of policy theme areas. Based on this, suggestions have been proposed to improve the legal and regulatory system, break down barriers between policy issuing departments,strengthen the application of policy supply-based and demand-based tools, and vigorously promote innovation in the water-saving industry.