Understanding the psychosocial determinants of littering behavior. A case study of Mbare Musika.

Author

Nyamunokora, Mieyolah C.

Title

Understanding the psychosocial determinants of littering behavior. A case study of Mbare Musika.

Abstract

Littering behavior remains a persistent environmental challenge globally, with significant public health, economic, and ecological implications. In urban informal markets such as Mbare Musika in Harare, Zimbabwe, the problem is particularly pronounced due to high human traffic, informal waste management systems, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. While various interventions have been attempted, the issue persists, suggesting deeper psychosocial dimensions that influence individual and collective behavior. Despite the growing body of environmental research, there is a noticeable gap in literature addressing the psychosocial determinants of littering, particularly within the context of informal market settings in developing countries. This study aims to fill that gap by examining the underlying psychosocial factors contributing to littering behavior at Mbare Musika. The main objective of the study was to explore the psychosocial determinants that influence littering behavior among vendors, customers, and residents at Mbare Musika. To achieve this, a mixed-methods research design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to ensure triangulation and depth of data. Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires were used to collect data from a purposively and randomly selected sample of 50 participants, including market traders, residents, municipal workers, and environmental officers. Thematic and descriptive analysis were employed to interpret the data. Findings from the study reveal that littering behavior at Mbare Musika is shaped by a complex interplay of attitudes, social norms, perceived behavioral control, lack of environmental awareness, and institutional inefficiencies. Cultural beliefs, peer influence, and a perceived absence of consequences were identified as key psychological and social drivers of littering. Moreover, inadequate infrastructure, such as limited bins and irregular waste collection, compounded the problem. These findings underscore the need for multifaceted interventions that go beyond infrastructure provision to address behavioral and social norms. The implications of the study are significant for policymakers, environmental educationists, and local authorities. It highlights the importance of incorporating behavioral change strategies, community engagement, and participatory governance into waste management policies. Ultimately, the research provides valuable insights that can inform targeted environmental interventions and contribute to more sustainable urban waste practices in Zimbabwe and beyond.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Mbare Musika

Littering Behavior

Psychosocial Determinants

Supervisor

Dr. P. Mukwenyi