Effects of separating waste at source: a case of the Thembisile Hani local municipality, South Africa.

Abstract

Management of solid waste is not only a South African challenge but a global chal-lenge. Separation of waste at source is a vital process in ensuring effective waste management at all levels. This article aims to investigate the effects of waste separa-tion at source in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, in Kwaggafontein, Mpumalanga Province. This study was based on a prag-matic research paradigm, mixed-methods research design, qualitative and quantita-tive research approaches, and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The population of this study was officials of the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality and community members. The sample of this study consisted of 240 participants who completed the questionnaires and five participants who were interviewed. Purposive sampling and simple random sampling methods were used to select the samples of the study. Individual interviews and questionnaires were used as instruments for collecting data. In this study, the data were analysed statistically using a t-test, arithmetic mean, and standard devia-tion and qualitatively using a thematic data analysis method. The study reveals that there is poor waste service because there are many illegal dumping sites in the study area; there is less waste education in the community, a high number of waste bags were disposed of illegally, and the waste is disposed of randomly. From the research results it can be concluded that Solid Waste Management challenges still exist in South Africa.