New Research: AIDS & Environment, Environmental Perceptions

Myself and collaborators have recently received publication acceptance on the following three manuscripts! Two are from collaborative research in South Africa, at the Agincourt field site. The third is with my Ph.D. Advisor, Michael White from Brown University. Please write if you'd like copies! lorimaehunter@comcast.net

Hunter, Lori M., Susan Strife, and Wayne Twine. Forthcoming. "Environmental Perceptions of Rural South African Residents: The Complex Nature of Environmental Concern." Society and Natural Resources. http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals/tf/08941920.html

Abstract: The state of the local environment shapes the well-being of millions of rural residents in developing nations. Still, we know little of these individuals' environmental perceptions. This study analyzes survey data collected in an impoverished, rural region in northeast South Africa, to understand the factors that shape concern with local environmental issues. We use the "post-materialist thesis" to explore the different explanations for environmental concern in less developed regions of the world, with results revealing the importance of both cultural and physical context. In particular, gendered interaction with natural resources shapes perceptions, as does the local setting. Both theoretical and policy implications are discussed.

Hunter, Lori M., Wayne Twine and Aaron Johnson. Forthcoming. "Adult Mortality and Natural Resource Use in Rural South Africa: Evidence from the Agincourt Health and Demographic Surveillance Site." Society and Natural Resources. http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals/tf/08941920.html

Abstract: There is little empirical evidence on the association between household experience with HIV/AIDS and shifts in the use of natural resources in developing countries, where residents of rural regions remain highly dependent on often-declining local supplies of natural resources. This study examines strategies with regard to fuelwood and water among impoverished rural South African households having experienced a recent adult mortality and those without such mortality experience. Quantitative survey data reveal higher levels of natural resource dependence among mortality-affected households, as well as differences in collection strategies. Qualitative interview data provide insight into subtle and complex adjustments at the household level, revealing that impacts vary by the role of the deceased within the household economy. Resource management and public health implications are explored.

Michael J. White and Lori M. Hunter. Forthcoming. "Public Perception of Environmental Issues in a Developing Setting: Environmental Concern in Coastal Ghana" Social Science Quarterly. http://www.wiley.com/bw/journal.asp?ref=0038-494

Abstract: Objective: Balancing environmental quality with economic growth in less developed settings is clearly a challenge. Still surprisingly little empirical evidence has been brought to bear on the relative priority given environmental and socioeconomic issues among the residents themselves of such settings. This research explores such perceptions. Methods: We undertake survey research with 2500 residents of coastal Ghana on policy issues, focusing on environmental topics. Results: Our analyses reveal a significant amount of environmental awareness, with education and political engagement consistently predicting higher levels of concern. In addition, environmental issues are deemed important even when considered relative to other socioeconomic issues. Conclusion: In the end, we argue that our work sheds light on global environmentalism and the ways in which local populations in less developed settings prioritize social and environmental concerns. This work also has important policy implications since insight on local perceptions may help buttress policy responses designed to cope with global change.