Assessing the perceptions of water conservation among informal settlements through a case study of the Mpolweni informal settlement, Reservoir Hills, Durban, South Africa.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess the perceptions of water conservation among informal settlements through a case study of the Mpolweni settlement, located in a peri-urban area in Reservoir Hills, Durban, South Africa. The specific objectives that guided this research aimed to examine the factors that give rise to water conservation, the water saving devices that are available for water conservation and the accessibility of such devices to the settlement, the views and practices of the informal settlement dwellers regarding water conservation and water usage and the obstacles that the settlement experience in conserving water. Questionnaires and focus groups were employed in collecting data regarding perceptions of water usage and conservation. Results indicate a general lack of knowledge among residents regarding water saving devices and water conservation practices, highlighting the need for education awareness programs regarding water conservation and water saving devices. However, most residents show positive attitudes toward water conservation and a readiness to adopt water saving practices.