Determinants of Environmental Perceptions and Attitudes in a Socio-Demographically Diverse Urban Setup: The Case of Gauteng Province, South Africa

Solomon G Tesfamichael,Tholang Mokhele,Simangele Dlamini,Yegnanew Shiferaw

doi:10.3390/su12093613

Solomon G Tesfamichael, Tholang Mokhele + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su12093613

Copy DOI

Abstract

In environment-nature discourse, determinants of environmental perceptions and attitudes vary significantly making it difficult to draw generalisations on their significance for particular locales. In this paper, we explore the key socio-demographic factors affecting environmental perceptions and attitudes for a socio-economically diverse area of Gauteng province, South Africa, using a generalised ordered logit model (gologit) approach. Personal level variables like gender, education level, employment status, age, population group, migration status and external variables such as dwelling type and electricity availability, obtained through a questionnaire, were assessed as determinants of environmental perceptions and attitudes. Statistical results indicated that dwelling type, gender, education level, place of birth and employment status were strong determinants of environmental attitudes. Population group (Coloured and White), dwelling type, electricity availability, employment status and education level (from primary only up to matric) were found to be significant predictors of environmental perceptions. Education level, dwelling type and employment status were therefore the common explanatory variables from the analysis, giving prominence to material values that people attach to environmental attitudes and perceptions. Age had no influence on both environmental perceptions and attitudes. The results from this article can provide a foundation for segmentation of anthropocentric factors for environmental planning and strategy formulation within the province.

Highlights

Environmental perceptions and attitudes are multidimensional, consisting of several interrelated constructs [1]
The results indicated that dwelling type, electricity availability, born in Gauteng or migrated, education level and population group were significantly associated with environmental attitudes and perceptions using both the χ2 and Kruskal-Wallis tests
The results demonstrate support for some variables being more important than others as predictors of environmental perceptions and attitudes

Summary

Introduction

Environmental perceptions and attitudes are multidimensional, consisting of several interrelated constructs [1]. One of the ways researchers can promote sustainable and pro-environmental behaviour is to understand the determinants of environmental perceptions and attitudes, as these have implications on human–nature relationships [2,3,4]. Ajzen and Fishbein (1980) [5] in their theory of reasoned action, asserted that evaluative and normative beliefs influence attitudes and norms towards the environment, and the resultant environmental behaviour. Studies have pointed out that person’s environmental perceptions and attitudes and resultant environmental behaviour can be shaped by several individual level and externally determined factors [6]. Studies on correlates between gender and its influence on environmental perceptions and attitudes have been inconsistent though, as other researchers have found no universality on differences in perceptions and attitudes based on gender [11,12]. Other empirical studies e.g., that by Theodori and Luloff (2002) based on a national survey in the USA, were not conclusive on the influence of gender on environmental behaviour [6]

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion