Research Project 2025

The Negative Impacts of People on Rivers

Submitted by: Grade 12 Learner

School: [Your School Name Here]

Province: Limpopo

District: Sekhukhune South

Term 2 - 2025
Research Report

Research Report

Research Report

Topic: The Negative Impacts of People on Rivers

Name: [Your Name]

Grade: 12

School: [Your School Name]

District: Sekhukhune South

Date: [Insert Date]

1. Introduction

Rivers are essential to both the natural environment and human society. They provide fresh water

for domestic use, agriculture, industry, and recreation. Additionally, rivers sustain ecosystems by

supporting a wide variety of plant and animal life. However, with population growth and expanding

human activities, rivers are increasingly under threat from pollution, overuse, and environmental

degradation. This study investigates the specific ways in which human activities negatively impact

rivers in the Ga-Masemola area of Limpopo Province.

This research aims to raise awareness about river pollution, explore community perspectives on

river usage and health, and suggest practical solutions to mitigate these impacts.

Hypothesis: Human activities negatively affect rivers in Ga-Masemola, leading to environmental

degradation and water pollution.

2. Mapping

The area of study, Ga-Masemola, is a rural village located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.

The local river systems are a crucial source of water for both domestic and agricultural use. A

detailed sketch map was created showing the locations of major rivers, nearby settlements, and

areas where human-river interaction is most evident. Areas of concern include illegal dumping sites,

agricultural fields near water sources, and informal settlements without proper sanitation.

3. Data Collection

Data for this study was collected through a structured questionnaire administered to local residents.

A total of 20 participants from various age groups and educational backgrounds were surveyed. The

questionnaire included both closed and open-ended questions divided into the following sections:

- General Information

- River Usage, Awareness and Perceptions

- Environmental Actions and Solutions

- Policy and Government Role

Key questions asked included:

- How often do you use the river?

- Are you aware of activities that negatively impact rivers?

- What do you think are the biggest threats to rivers?

- Have you participated in river clean-up projects?

4. Data Presentation

The results of the questionnaire were organized into categories to allow for easier analysis.

Frequency of River Use:

- Daily: 4

- Weekly: 9

- Monthly: 5

- Yearly: 2

Purpose of Use:

- Domestic: 12

- Religious: 2

- Agricultural: 4

- Other: 2

Awareness of Negative Impacts:

- Yes: 16

- No: 0

- Somewhat: 4

Main Causes of Pollution (multiple responses allowed):

- Household waste and sewage: 15

- Agricultural runoff: 12

- Deforestation and erosion: 9

- Industrial waste: 6

- Overfishing and habitat destruction: 5

- Climate change: 8

Participation in Environmental Actions:

- Yes: 3
Research Report

- No: 17

Waste Disposal Methods:

- Burning: 8

- Dumping in rivers: 6

- Recycling: 3

- Other: 3

5. Data Analysis

The survey results show that rivers play a significant role in the daily lives of Ga-Masemola

residents. The majority use rivers for domestic purposes, and most are aware of the harmful effects

of pollution. Despite this awareness, behaviors such as improper waste disposal and a lack of

environmental involvement continue to harm the rivers.

Household waste was the most frequently mentioned source of pollution, followed by agricultural

runoff and deforestation. While some respondents recognized climate change as a threat, fewer

identified overfishing or industrial waste, indicating a gap in environmental education.

Furthermore, very few community members have taken part in clean-up campaigns or conservation

projects, showing a need for increased awareness and engagement. The lack of participation may

be due to limited resources, low environmental education, or a sense that such efforts will not make

a difference.

6. Conclusion

This study confirms that human activities significantly impact the health of rivers in Ga-Masemola.

The hypothesis is ACCEPTED.

The evidence gathered shows that pollution from households and farms, along with limited

community involvement, is degrading river ecosystems. Despite widespread awareness of the

problem, action is minimal, and the community continues to engage in practices that harm the

environment.

7. Recommendations

To address the negative impacts of people on rivers in Ga-Masemola, the following

recommendations are proposed:

1. Environmental Education Campaigns:

Local schools and community centers should introduce programs to teach the importance of river

conservation and how to manage waste responsibly.

2. Improved Waste Management Systems:

The government should provide bins, schedule regular waste collection, and enforce penalties for

illegal dumping. Recycling stations can also be introduced.

3. Community Involvement:

Organize clean-up days and involve youth groups, churches, and NGOs in river conservation efforts.

Incentives or recognition can motivate more people to participate.

4. Sustainable Agriculture:

Encourage the use of eco-friendly farming practices, such as contour plowing, natural fertilizers, and

buffer zones to prevent runoff.

5. Policy Enforcement:

Local authorities must implement and enforce laws that protect river systems from pollution and

overuse.

6. Government Action:

Increased investment in rural infrastructure and water sanitation can reduce dependence on polluted

rivers. Monitoring systems can help track pollution sources.

8. References/Bibliography

- Community Survey, 2025 (Primary Source)

- Department of Water and Sanitation, South Africa. (2024). River Health Programme.

- Environmental Management in South Africa (2023). Limpopo River Basin Report.

- Earthlife Africa. (2023). Environmental Education Toolkit.

- World Wildlife Fund. (2022). The Impact of Human Activities on Freshwater Ecosystems.
Visual Data Representation