Factors Affecting Compliance of Wastewater Management: A Study on Waste Water System Operations in the City of Tshwane, Gauteng

Abstract

Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) are likely to collapse, the state of water continues to deteriorate, and rivers remain polluted. Wastewater Operational System are now at the centre of economic value systems expected to drive towards sustainability. Factors affecting compliance with wastewater management in the growing City of Tshwane, Gauteng, were investigated to realise wastewater as a valuable resource where other valuable resources can be harnessed. This dissertation explored professionals’ perspectives regarding factors affecting wastewater management compliance in the City of Tshwane (CoT). The research report explored what professionals perceive as challenges that affect compliance at their workstations and their views on which changes can be introduced. The primary objective of the study is determining the elements responsible for challenges to a complying facility; challenges with the current governing wastewater legislation toward realising efforts for a new paradigm shift. Among others, the findings revealed a shortage of staff, a lack of consumables for effluent monitoring, and maintenance irregularities contributing to the shortfalls in achieving complying wastewater. As pollution of the water resource has become a national challenge where treatment plants must continue doing the intended work, the need to explore new technologies that can assist in treatment efficiencies in the City of Tshwane is discussed. Although there was dissatisfaction with the Green Drop incentive programme, with correct consistencies and proper championing, it was found to instil a positive attitude in professionals.