Perceptions of environmental compliance and pro-environmental behaviours in KwaZulu-Natal municipalities, South Africa
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Authors
Zungu, Nqobile Sphesihle
Issue Date
2025-02
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Research Subject Categories::NATURAL SCIENCES , Environmental compliance , Governance , Perception , Pro-environmental behaviours , Local government , Municipalities , Political interference , Environmental literacy , KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa
Alternative Title
Abstract
Environmental crimes have a devastating impact on social and economic development. They affect food security, public health, livelihoods and undermine the implementation of the global Sustainable Development Goals. As primary agents of local governance, municipalities are responsible for community development whilst ensuring compliance with environmental legislation. Their activities have an impact on the environment, making their approach to environmental compliance and adoption of pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs) critical.
This study aimed to explore the perceptions of municipal officials regarding environmental compliance and their engagement in PEBs. Through the lens of interpretivism paradigm, the study adopted the qualitative approach and a case study research design. Hence, data collection methods included interviews, document analysis and site visits. Ten municipalities were sampled. Research participants comprised of municipal officials, consultants and inspectors. Data was analysed following the principles of thematic analysis on ATLAS.ti 24.1.0 software.
Findings reveal that while officials are aware of environmental compliance requirements, this awareness often fails to translate into action. Factors such as political interference, poor planning, inadequate communication and funding deficiencies are significant barriers that prevent the translation of knowledge into action. Conversely, factors such as environmental literacy, the presence of environmental units and enforcement by regulators are pivotal in driving compliance in local government.
Consultants and inspectors perceive a general reluctance towards compliance among municipalities. To enhance environmental compliance, the participants identified the need for increased awareness, capacity building, organisational restructuring and political support. The perceived benefits of compliance included improved sustainability, health and resource preservation.
The findings also indicated that the adoption of PEBs by municipal officials is selective, with a preference for recycling and green commuting over the broader sustainability practices. The barriers to adoption of PEBs include resource limitations and varying levels of interest.
University of South Africa ― Zungu, NS (2025)
This study offered a detailed understanding of the dynamics of environmental compliance in local government, refinement of the existing theories and recommended practical guidelines for improving environmental compliance and adoption of PEBs in local government. The study's insights provide foundation for cross-sector stakeholders, future research and policy development aimed at promoting sustainability.