South Africa’s Constitutional Environmental Right (Generously) Interpreted: What is in it for Poverty?

Plessis, Anél du

doi:10.1080/19962126.2011.11865016

Cited by 16 publications

(5 citation statements)

References 0 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…This definition must be read together with the fundamental right 'to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being' as outlined in section 24 of the Constitution. Du Plessis' [37] opinion further expands on this concept, stating that the term 'environment' not only relates to the land, water and atmosphere of the earth but also includes socio-economic and cultural dimensions of the interrelationship between people and the natural environment, given these factors' close connection to the overall state of the environment. At a national level, we bear a collective responsibility to adopt and commit to sustainable practices that limit our contributions to climate change, thereby reducing the drivers of climate change, which can indirectly impact the occurrence of cholera and other diseases of this nature.…”

Section: Collective Responsibility: Climate Change and Choleramentioning

confidence: 99%

Collective responsibility during a cholera outbreak: The case of Hammanskraal

Obasa,

Botes,

Palk

2023

S Afr J Bioethics Law

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

The transmission of cholera, a highly infectious disease, is closely linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities, with resource-poor communities, including refugees, rural communities and temporary displacement camps particularly vulnerable to outbreaks. Any disruption in water and sanitation systems or a sudden surge in community size owing to displacement can spark a humanitarian and health crisis, elevating the risk of cholera transmission and possibly triggering a regional epidemic. Recently, Hammanskraal in Gauteng, South Africa, experienced such an epidemic. A multifaceted approach is essential to minimise fatalities and effectively manage healthcare services in such health emergencies. This approach includes early detection, rapid response to contain outbreaks, and the effective deployment of technical support, advocacy, resource mobilisation and partnerships at local, national, and international levels. This paper explores the responsibilities of individuals, healthcare workers, communities and governments in addressing epidemics. It also delves into the concept of collective responsibility with regard to climate change and cholera, as part of the multifaceted approach for cholera prevention and control. While economic development, equal access to safe drinking water, and adequate sanitation are necessary for cholera control, major challenges persist in achieving the fundamental right to a healthy environment in the long term. We also discuss these obstacles and conclude with practical suggestions and recommendations for future cholera prevention.

show abstract

Section: Collective Responsibility: Climate Change and Choleramentioning

confidence: 99%

Collective responsibility during a cholera outbreak: The case of Hammanskraal

Obasa,

Botes,

Palk

2023

S Afr J Bioethics Law

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…For example, it indicates that it is implementing air quality monitoring control, it has environmental management plans in place, it is involved in the training education and awareness relating to environmental management and it has set down a budget of about R27, 000, 000 for acquisition of waste equipment and construction of landfills (Maluleke, 2014). In 2011/2012(Capricorn District Municipality Original Budget 2011/2012, the Capricorn District Municipality indicated the need for proper waste management within the district.…”

Section: Control and Management Of Wastementioning

confidence: 99%

“…It states that everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their well-being and that the environment must be protected for the benefit of the present and future generations. Control and management of waste are envisaged by section 24 of the constitution (Du Plessis, 2011). Harmful wastes dumped in the environment are sources of environmental hazards and as such, they deprive people of the right to enjoy an environment that is not harmful to health and survival (Shelton, 2006).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Legal Mechanisms on Waste Control and Responsibility to Protect: A Comparative Perspective

Odeku¹

2014

MJSS

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…The right to a healthy and clean environment simply means that people must live in an environment conducive to the well-being of living and non-living things (Du Plessis, 2011). Therefore, it is the responsibility of everyone to take care of the environment and prevent it from being polluted, degraded and destroyed (May, 2005).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%