Abstract:
The promotion of clean environment by the public has a positive impact in the reduction of waste in communities. Disposable diapers are part of solid waste that has its own management challenges as their consumption is increasing due to population growth. Disposable diapers offer convenience however they take centuries for their plastic components to decompose after disposal which poses risks to the public and environmental health.
This study sought to investigate how mothers of infants dispose soiled diapers in rural areas of Ga-Matlala in Limpopo province. The study followed a mixed-method research approach that used a survey questionnaire, interviews and field observations. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques, respectively, were used to select respondents.
It was established that the majority of respondents use disposable diapers compared to cloth diapers. Most of the respondents are aware of the negative impacts on the environment resulting from improper disposal methods of soiled diapers. The study also found that the mothers are willing to work with the municipality to keep their environment safe and clean. The local municipality does not render the refuse collection services to 75% of all settlement in their jurisdiction. The study found that they have low budget and poor infrastructure such as roads to deliver the basic needs to the communities.
This study recommends that there should be participation and strong partnership between the local municipality and community members to educate with proper disposal of soiled diapers. The results of this research could encourage further research on how policy application, as well as the formulation of acts and regulations, including municipal by-laws, could be streamlined within municipal responsibilities, as municipalities generally lack these frameworks
