Reclaiming Agency in the Informal Economy

Navigating the Paradox of Economic Empowerment and Environmental Degradation in Artisanal Brickmaking in Rural KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

The intersection of climate change and local economies, particularly those heavily reliant on natural resources, presents a complex and pressing challenge. Artisanal brickmaking has emerged as a vital economic activity. However, its impact on local ecosystems and environmental health is a subject of intense debate. This study examines the interconnected nature of artisanal brickmaking and its socio-economic and environmental implications in a rural community in Blaauwbosch,  KwaZulu-Natal. Employing a qualitative case study design, the study drew on in-depth interviews with 30 brickmakers who also engage in artisanal mining, complemented by ethnographic site observations.

The findings illustrate that informal brickmaking has had a positive impact on the local economy, fostering income generation, livelihood diversification, and employment opportunities. Moreover, the availability of locally produced bricks has facilitated an improvement in housing conditions, enabling community members to transition from precarious, makeshift dwellings to more durable brick houses fabricated from locally produced bricks. However, these socio-economic benefits are juxtaposed by acute environmental and public health risks, including air pollution, water contamination and soil erosion, as articulated by some participants. Given the community’s dependence on natural resources for survival, this study recommends that informal brick producers be provided with support to facilitate a transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. These measures should be integrated into broader initiatives that support local economies, such as training programs for brickmakers, entrepreneurship development and access to markets for locally produced bricks.