Social and Environmental Responsibility

Term 2: Weeks 4–7

1. Environmental and Social Justice

• Environmental justice means fair treatment and involvement of all people in caring for the environment.
• It ensures that no group suffers more from pollution, waste, or lack of clean water and land.
• Social justice means fairness in how people are treated and in having equal access to resources like healthcare, education, and housing.
• People living in poverty are often more affected by environmental and social problems.

2. Harmful Effects on Society and the Environment

• Air and water pollution affect people’s health and damage nature.
• Deforestation and poor farming harm the soil and increase flooding.
• Littering and dumping waste damage communities and cause disease.
• Climate change (global warming) causes droughts, floods, and food shortages.
• Social issues like poverty, hunger, and poor housing create unfair living conditions.

3. Poverty and Unemployment

• Poverty = not having enough money to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and education.
• Unemployment = not having a job even if you're willing and able to work.
• These problems are linked: no job means no income, which leads to poor living conditions.
• Poverty affects health, increases crime, and reduces access to basic services.

4. Food Insecurity and Services

• Food insecurity = not having enough safe, nutritious food.
• Caused by poverty, poor farming systems, conflict, and high food prices.
• Many people in South Africa, especially in rural areas, go hungry every day.
• Lack of clean water, electricity, sanitation, and healthcare increases inequality.

5. Crime, Violence and Emotional Impact

• Crime includes theft, robbery, abuse, and drug use – it causes fear and stress in communities.
• Violence at home, school, or in public creates trauma and fear.
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) = a condition after trauma, causing flashbacks, fear, and anxiety.
• Living in violent environments affects concentration, learning, and mental health.

6. Volunteering and Civic Responsibility

• Civic responsibility means taking action to make your community better.
• Volunteering = giving your time to help others without expecting payment.
• Examples: cleaning up litter, tutoring learners, helping the elderly, planting gardens.
• You learn leadership, teamwork, and responsibility while helping others.

7. Youth Involvement in Social Change

• Young people can make a difference by getting involved in local projects.
• Projects can focus on health, safety, food, housing, or the environment.
• Examples: joining a recycling group, starting a feeding scheme, or educating others.
• Your voice and actions help create a fairer and safer society for all.