Abstract:
Littering is a growing environmental problem that has caught the eyes of different
sectors of society. This study, which was conducted in Maseru, Lesotho, aimed to understand
littering perceptions and behaviours among the general public. A qualitative phenomenological
study design was used where data was collected through semi-structured interviews from a
sample of 57 respondents. Data was analysed through content analysis. Findings revealed that
Maseru city is perceived as heavily littered, although littering was seen to have decreased over
time. Furthermore, litterers are predominantly female, aged between 26-35 and most have
secondary education. Material factors such as the availability of waste receptacles and the
convenience of the receptacle location influence littering behaviour, while keeping a clean
environment was identified as the main promoter of anti-littering behaviour. The study
concluded that there are positive perceptions and negative behaviours in littering in Maseru.
Recommendations for reducing littering included the supply of more litter bins and creating
awareness through education
