Determinants and strategies for environmental compliance in municipalities: Perspectives from KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Municipal environmental compliance in South Africa is hindered by capacity and political issues. Enhancing compliance requires leadership, capacity building, and stronger enforcement for sustainability.
Area Of Science
- Environmental governance
- Sustainability science
- Public administration
Background
- Local environmental compliance is vital for sustainable futures.
- South African municipalities face persistent non-compliance due to capacity, political interference, and coordination challenges.
- Existing environmental laws are extensive but often not effectively implemented at the municipal level.
Purpose Of The Study
- To examine the key factors determining environmental compliance in South African municipalities.
- To identify effective strategies for improving municipal environmental compliance.
- To understand the influence of institutional dynamics and political factors on compliance outcomes.
Main Methods
- Qualitative research approach using a case study design.
- Sampling of 10 municipalities in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
- Conducted 27 in-depth interviews with municipal officials, environmental consultants (ECs), and environmental management inspectors (EMIs).
Main Results
- Institutional capacity, regulatory enforcement, and political support are critical determinants of environmental compliance.
- Awareness creation, targeted capacity building, and organizational restructuring are identified as key strategies.
- Findings highlight the interconnectedness of institutional factors and political will in achieving compliance.
Conclusions
- Strengthening municipal environmental compliance necessitates enhanced leadership commitment, robust institutional capacity, consistent enforcement, and inter-municipal collaboration.
- The study underscores the significant role of institutional dynamics and political influence in shaping municipal environmental compliance.
- Provides a foundational understanding for policymakers, stakeholders, and future research on improving environmental governance and sustainability.
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