Conservation, economics, non-state actors, and local perspectives are the four environmental storylines recognized in South Africa.

- The conservation viewpoint is influenced by the authoritarian approach, which holds that people should not be granted land rights and, as a result, often leads to forced relocations and resettlements. Because it is centered on colonial times rather than the present, this story does not help to a better knowledge of the SA environment.

- From an economic standpoint, the land is utilized for farming and selling, and it is viewed as a valuable asset that contributes to a country's socio-economic growth. This viewpoint is influenced by the capitalist method, which places people of power in a position of power. The non-state actor perspective is one that is shaped by persons who do not live in the community.
These people fight the government when they disagree with particular policies because they believe that environmental or natural resources are in decline and should be safeguarded. This viewpoint can lead to a better understanding of the SA environment because it promotes communal benefit with the goal of reducing poverty