Variables influencing provincial government’s role to manage the interface between environmental protection and economic development: considerations to improve sustainable development in South Africa

Abstract

The article aims to highlight the nature, content and scope of continental and subnational sustainability priorities, with reference to specific perspectives of environmental and economic development, agriculture, food security, energy, health, water and sanitation. As such, subnational governments need to devise sustainable strategies to manage these demands in an efficient manner. As a methodological approach, the authors conducted a desktop analysis of applicable literature and official documents to conceptualise and contextualise the area of investigation. The data collection sources for the desktop analysis included global authoritative books, articles, as well as regulatory, policy and strategy documents in South African context. The methodological approach included unobtrusive research techniques. When studying social behaviour, unobtrusive research techniques encourage contextual and conceptual analysis, while helping to remove bias. Research results highlight the challenging nature of designing and implementing environmental programmes, policies and strategies in South Africa. This is due to inadequate human capacity, chronic resource shortages and inadequate intergovernmental coordination, while the respective responsibilities of national, provincial and local authorities are not clearly outlined. Further challenges include insufficient political will and environmentally sustainable leadership to support the environmental agenda.

Keywords: Economic Development, Environmental Protection, Sustainable Development, Sustainability, Natural Resource Management