Perceptions of Water Pollution in South Africa: Case Studies from Two Water Bodies (Hartbeespoort Dam and Zandvlei)

Abstract

Afrikaans

A questionnaire survey of over 3 000 recreational users of inland waters in the greater Pretoria and Cape Town areas was conducted during 1987/8 for the purpose of quantifying, as far as possible, the perceptions of the public towards water quality and water pollution in South Africa. Respondents indicated that excessive aquatic plant growth and other visually aesthetic factors were the principal determinants of water quality, regardless of demographic background. These results are comparable to results obtained in similar studies in north America and appear to be indicative of a rising awareness of environmental issues in South Africa. There was a general willingness among respondents to meet the higher costs associated with the achievement of improved standards of water quality and the elimination of the perceived problems enumerated above.

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