There are 4 narratives that are used to explain the relationship between the society and its environment. Each narrative is created from a different perspective with a different agenda and each support a different base of power therefore each narrative has a different objective. Namely they are: conservation, economic, non-state actors and local views.

• Conservation

This narrative originates from the Apartheid era and did not consider the rights of people when acquiring land and natural resources which lead to the removal of people from certain areas. The environment is seen as a victim that needs to saved from people that overuse its resources. 

• Economic

In this narrative the environment is seen as something that can be sold for financial benefit. The environment is exploited for its natural resources.

• Non-state actors 

The narrative originates from entities that are not part of the local community. The aim of this narrative is to let the educate the community about the state of their environment and how it may be at danger. 

• Local views

This narrative is complex due to the fact it is determined by time and which entity is in power locally, therefore it changes drastically due to the circumstances. 

There are main discourses of the environment in South Africa, and they are, the sustainable development and, environmental and social justice. 

• Sustainable development discourse works towards development without harming the environment. It also makes profits from the environment and let the community know what is happening to their environment.

The sustainable development discourse is included to the South African environment policy because its principles are incorporated in the constitution, it draws on world systems and ecological modernization theory. It provides a model for real change and development by addressing social injustices.