| Summary: | Philosophiae Doctor - PhD (Earth Science) === Water scarcity which impacts negatively on humans, as well as on the natural
environment, is a real problem facing developed and developing countries. The reuse
of wastewater is a critical component of the effective and environmentally sustainable
management of South Africa's municipal water supplies. Recycling municipal
wastewater for domestic applications is generally less common because people are
repelled by the thought of water that has been in toilets going to taps. This repulsion of
'toilet to tap' is a symptom of the disgust or 'yuck' emotion. The study aims to address
negative public perceptions by proposing an approach of terms of engagement with
local government, which is likely to shift negative responses to more positive responses.
The study used a qualitative methodology and a case study design was deployed for the
study. Data was collected through individual interviews and focus group discussions
and involved the use of Participatory Action Research tools. A sample size of eightyeight
respondents comprised of municipal officials and members from the public. The
Capability Approach, which advocates for social justice and well-being is the
theoretical framework that grounds this study. Data was analysed using categorical
aggregation analysis. The study proposes that inadequate engagement between the
institutions and the public is the premise for negative perceptions and emotions because
it inhibits public understanding regarding the safety and benefits of the reclaimed water
scheme. Equity concerns are particularly visible due to the cleavages created by the
past apartheid era. The study argues that there is an over reliance of the Environmental
Impact Assessment stakeholder engagement which is the modus operandi of public
engagement. The study develops terms of engagement and specifies when and how
institutions should engage with the public to avoid obstacles to the implementation of
reclaimed water. The study posits that the public should be involved in all decisionmaking
stages, from the initial stages right through to the final stages of the project,
giving them an opportunity to make informed choices regarding reclaimed water. This
study provides evidence that the interface between the institutions and the public is
likely to foster dialogue between the public and local government where reclaimed
water is no longer a threat but becomes a solution to water scarcity.
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