Browsing by Author "Steyn, Shaun"

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    Exploring urban residents’ perceptions of waste, litter, and clean environments in Mbekweni, Western Cape, South Africa
    (University of the Western Cape, 2023) Steyn, Shaun
    Increased waste generation and pollution in South Africa arise from multiple factors ranging from an increase in the construction of towns and cities, population increases, ever-changing consumption patterns, and economic growth. The waste which humans and other actors currently produce requires strategic management as natural environmental processes cannot break down and recycle waste materials adequately. This dissertation attempts to explore narratives and ideas of waste, litter, dumping, and what constitutes clean urban environments in a South African township. The theory of social constructionism formed the conceptual framework for this dissertation. In this regard, the study aims to retain sight of the reality of all things waste-related, but at the same time unpack the way humans ‘make’ their own reality by constructing narratives about it. This research was conducted in Mbekweni, a township near Paarl in the Western Cape of South Africa. The main data collection method was qualitative, semi-structured interviews with residents living in Mbekweni. The dissertation provides insights into waste, litter, and dumping perceptions and practices in South African townships and informal settlements. Residents argued that reasons for littering and dumping in Mbekweni included: habit, people not exercising the duty of care, as well as the lack of waste management resources.