Environmental Impact Assessments and Public Acceptance of Waste Management Technologies in South African Cities,

This study examines environmental impact assessments (EIAs) of waste management technologies implemented in South African cities and explores public acceptance surveys conducted during a period when such interventions were being rolled out. A comparative analysis was conducted using data from multiple South African cities where waste management projects were implemented between and . The study employed survey methods to gather quantitative data from residents living near waste treatment facilities, alongside qualitative interviews with local authorities and community leaders. The findings indicate that while EIAs provided a structured framework for environmental compliance, they often lacked thorough stakeholder engagement, leading to inconsistencies in public acceptance across different cities. There was a notable variation in the proportion of residents who expressed support or opposition to new waste management technologies based on the EIA process. The study concludes that while EIAs are essential tools for environmental protection and regulatory compliance, their success is significantly influenced by how effectively they engage with local communities. This has implications for future EIA processes in waste management projects across South Africa. Recommendations include enhancing the transparency of EIA processes, involving a broader range of stakeholders including community members, and integrating public acceptance surveys into initial planning stages to better inform decision-making and reduce resistance.