Environmental Regulation Compliance, Assessing the Impact of Regulatory Enforcement Strategies in Malawi

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the environmental regulation compliance, assessing the impact of regulatory enforcement strategies in Malawi.

Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.

Findings: Effective enforcement strategies, such as stringent monitoring, penalties for non-compliance, and incentives for compliance, play a crucial role in encouraging businesses to adhere to environmental regulations. Additionally, proactive enforcement efforts, including regular inspections and audits, can enhance compliance levels. Moreover, collaborative approaches involving partnerships between regulatory agencies, businesses, and communities have shown promise in achieving environmental goals while fostering economic growth.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Deterrence theory, institutional theory and social exchange theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the environmental regulation compliance, assessing the impact of regulatory enforcement strategies in Malawi. Policymakers and regulatory agencies should prioritize the adoption of proactive enforcement strategies that leverage incentives and technological innovations to promote compliance. The findings of empirical studies should inform the design and implementation of environmental regulations at both the national and international levels.