Socio-environmental effects of Zvishavane urban population growth

Abstract

The research focused on socio-environmental effects of Zvishavane urban population growth. It was done in light of the tragedy of the commons theory by Garrett Hardin, in conjunction with Harris and Todaro rural to urban drift model. The researcher used a quantitative research methodology which included the use of questionnaires for data collection. A case study research design method was used to address aims and objectives of the study. The objectives of the study included factors which influence Zvishavane urban population growth, effects of urban population growth on the socio-environment, challenges faced in mitigating the effects and recommending ways of promoting sustainability .Simple random sampling was used for selecting 200 respondents from the population of 80 000.Microsoft excel was used to analyse data obtained by the questionnaires. It was observed that Zvishavane urban population growth negatively affected the socio-environment by reducing the environmental quality of the area. The increase also added pressure on local authorities such that they faced challenges on meeting the requirements of service delivery resulting in increased pollution, overcrowding in houses and deforestation. Activities such as dumping of waste, deforestation and burning of waste have had a deleterious effect on the socio-environment. Therefore from the study the researcher recommends that strong policies and measures should be aimed at managing the environment as well as promoting environmental sustainability.