"The heat really troubles us": community perspectives on a cool roof intervention, Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Abstract

Introduction: Climate change disproportionately affects communities experiencing social and environmental vulnerabilities. In South Africa, rising temperatures pose a significant risk to peri-urban communities. This pilot study explored community perceptions and attitudes toward the "cool roof" passive cooling technology for homes, as a climate adaptation strategy in Umlazi, South Africa.

Method: Trained facilitators conducted focus group discussions with advisory board members from the Umlazi Health and Demographic Surveillance Site (USINGA) a peri-urban demographic surveillance node located in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, using a semi-structured guide and visual aids of cool roofs, to explore perceptions and attitudes toward cool roof interventions. Discussions were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's approach.

Results: The emerging themes were: limited awareness and knowledge of cool roofs as a heat adaptation strategy, perceived benefits and acceptance, concerns and reservations, affordability and equity, design preferences, as well as the importance of partnerships and community engagement. Participants recognized the potential of cool roofs in reducing indoor heat, improving comfort, reducing extreme fatigue, and benefiting vulnerable populations; they viewed the intervention as timely and necessary. However, concerns were raised that some older people might believe that white roofs attract death, and some may indulge in the conspiracy theory that the coating is associated with disease. Participants questioned the long-term effectiveness of cool roofs and their compatibility with existing informal housing structures lacking traditional roofs. They felt that the current cost of paint may make the intervention inaccessible to those most in need of it, thereby limiting equitable distribution, as most people were unemployed. Furthermore, they believed that if cool roofs lacked long-term durability and required constant maintenance, people were unlikely to accept the intervention.

Conclusion: While overall perceptions were positive, engaging and educating the community through transparent communication and information on cool roof interventions will address concerns and encourage the adoption of these interventions. From a policy and practice perspective, government programs on climate resilience must be culturally sensitive and responsive to local beliefs while prioritizing vulnerable populations and being inclusive during climate adaptation planning. Further research is needed to inform the development of acceptable and scalable implementation strategies in peri-urban settings.