Civic Ecology Uplifts Low-Income Communities, Improves Ecosystem Services and Well-Being, and Strengthens Social Cohesion

Ecosystem services enhance well-being and the livelihoods of disadvantaged communities. Civic ecology can enhance social–ecological systems; however, their contributions to ecosystem services are rarely measured. We analysed the outcomes of civic ecology interventions undertaken in Durban, South Africa, as part of the Wise Wayz Water Care programme (the case study). Using mixed methods (household and beneficiary (community members implementing interventions) surveys, interviews, field observations, and workshops), we identified ecosystem service use and values, as well as the benefits of six interventions (solid waste management and removal from aquatic and terrestrial areas, recycling, invasive alien plant control, river water quality monitoring, vegetable production, and community engagement). Ecosystem services were widely used for agriculture, subsistence, and cultural uses. River water was used for crop irrigation, livestock, and recreation. Respondents noted numerous improvements to natural habitats: decrease in invasive alien plants, less pollution, improved condition of wetlands, and increased production of diverse vegetables. Improved habitats were linked to enhanced ecosystem services: clean water, agricultural production, harvesting of wood, and increased cultural and spiritual activities. Key social benefits were increased social cohesion, education, and new business opportunities. We highlight that local communities can leverage natural capital for well-being and encourage policy support of civic ecology initiatives.

Exploring Civic Ecology Practice: Composting program in Subang Jaya

Active engagements in ecology practices are platforms which lead to good ecological behaviour and consciousness (Kamaruddin et.al., 2013). This study aims to explore urban community stewardship or civic ecology practice of doing composting in an urban municipality, i.e. Subang Jaya Selangor, Malaysia in the context of practice theory (Schatzki, 2000). The variables were analysed using the chi square test of independence and factor analysis procedure. The findings highlight how elements, such as competencies, meanings and physical resource, define the practice and support urban stewardship. Family and friendship networking, collaboration with others and civic consciousness were crucial in motivating the participants and support program sustainability.Keywords: Environmental stewardship; Civic ecology; Sustainable waste managementeISSN: 2398-4287 © 2019. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open-access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v4i12.1772