Interrogating Factors Associated with Littering along Road Servitudes on Zimbabwean Highways

Abstract

Littering along highways in Zimbabwe is abysmal. Legislation to curb littering has been put in place under the watchdog of Environmental Management Agency through Environmental Management Act Ch 20:27 section 83 and Statutory Instrument 6 0f 2007. Besides legislation, packaging for many products is clearly labeled ‘place litter in bins’, but many do not regard this instruction. Clean- ups and anti-littering campaigns have proved to be an avalanche of charades for the public fail to justify their existence. Moreover, these could face a stillbirth if there is no concomitant behavior change amongst local communities. The study sought to investigate the causes of littering along road servitudes on highways, examine the strategies that have been put in place to curb littering and assess challenges faced in implementing the strategies employed. From the study it was evident that littering continues to take place due to socio-cultural consumption style of Mac-donaldization (fast foods). Apart from public conveyances flouting environmental regulations, illegal vendors and transport route operators have increased despite the economy’s resuscitation. Their reluctance in providing bins is a warrant for wanton littering by the public from moving vehicles. To further worsen the predicament road authorities (Department of Roads, District Development Fund (DDF), urban and rural district councils are not well financed to maintain the roads by ZINARA (Zimbabwe National Roads Authority) under Ministry of Transport and Communication because of limited funds. Even when they cushion the councils the funds are swallowed by salaries and wages which are always in perennial deficits.