Developing Sustainable Waste Management Strategies in Municipalities in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

A Case Study Approach

Abstract

The study focuses on the sustainable waste management challenges faced by the Amathole District Municipality. The increasing waste generation and inefficient waste management practices in rural areas highlight the need for a systematic approach to address these issues. The primary objective of this research was to assess the challenges in waste management and provide actionable recommendations to improve sustainability in waste management practices. A qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore the perspectives of various stakeholders involved in waste management, including municipal officials, community leaders, and local citizens. Data was collected from 12 participants through semi-structured interviews to gain in-depth insight into the issues and potential solutions. The Waste Management Theory guided the analysis, emphasizing the waste hierarchy and integrated waste management principles. Key challenges identified included inadequate waste management infrastructure, insufficient budget allocations, and low public awareness and illegal dumping sites. The study concludes that enhancing waste management strategies requires collaborative efforts between local authorities, the private sector, and the community. Recommendations include strengthening waste infrastructure, increasing public awareness campaigns, and implementing a "polluter pays" principle. These interventions are essential for promoting sustainability and improving waste management practices within the municipality.