Applying the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) towards understanding tourism-related waste behaviour in the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area

Abstract

An increasing population, urbanisation, as well as unsustainable anthropogenic activities have resulted in the degradation of the natural environment. This is especially true in vulnerable environments, such as protected areas (PAs). South Africa is home to many PAs, which generates a considerable number of tourism activities. Tourism-related activities generate different types and quantities of waste, which may cause negative impacts to PAs if not managed correctly. In order to ensure that the PA environment is conserved and protected, sustainable waste management should be practiced. This research aims to apply the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to understand the factors influencing waste behaviour related to tourism activities within the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area (MPA). The TPB suggests that an individual's intention to engage in a behaviour is dependent on their attitude, subjective norms, as well as perceived behavioural control. To this extent, the waste management behaviour of selected diving charters and accommodation facilities were considered in this research. The research specifically focuses on waste separation at source behaviour. Observed- and self-reported elements of waste separation at source behaviours were determined during this research, since literature suggests that there may be inconsistencies between reported- and actual waste-related behaviour. On-site observations and a waste characterisation study were performed to understand observed (or actual) behaviour. Survey questionnaires, based on the TPB, were administered to determine self-reported behaviour. Associations between TPB statements could not be determined because of the low variability of data points, mainly due to the relatively small sample size. Finally, interviews were conducted to understand the opportunities and challenges related to waste separation at source within the Aliwal Shoal MPA. Waste observations and waste characterisation studies of five diving charters and four accommodation facilities indicated that there was a significant percentage of recyclable waste (>70%) found within the disposable waste, with no source separation currently taking place. It was also determined that no waste separation infrastructure was present at any of the participants investigated. Responses from nine participants indicated a positive attitude towards waste separation, with a social drive towards participating. Respondents also indicated that they generally participated in waste separation at source. This contradicted the observation data, which indicated that no waste separation at source is currently being practiced. Results of interviews indicated that a lack of waste separation infrastructure, a lack of collection and transportation services, convenience, time constraints, and the willingness of customers to participate in waste separation were the main challenges of source separation in the Aliwal Shoal. The provision of waste separation resources and municipal services, as well as improved waste management behaviour were opportunities identified by the participants.