http://hdl.handle.net/10386/2304 2026-04-06T04:27:05Z http://hdl.handle.net/10386/5411 A framework for eco-efficiency and financial performance in food and beverage companies listed in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Malapa, Dimakatso Hellen The manufacturing sector is generally seen as the greatest polluter, and as a result, there is a growing concern about environmental problems caused by their manufacturing processes. In spite of the global call for industries to engage in eco-efficient practices due to the sector being rated the greatest contributor to environmental pollution, manufacturing companies continue to emit carbon, consume water, energy, and available natural resources excessively, causing a serious peril to the globe. Given that manufacturing industries can benefit financially from eco-efficiency practices, this study therefore examined the relationship between eco-efficiency and financial performance of selected JSE listed food and beverage manufacturing companies. The study employed the multiple linear regression analysis (MLRA) to analyse secondary data from annual integrated reports and the ordinary least square (OLS) method to analyse quantitative primary data from CFOs and EOs of the 14 food and beverage manufacturing companies listed in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in South Africa for 10 years (2012- 2021). MLRA results showed a positive yet insignificant relationship between energy conservation and financial performance variables and a positive yet insignificant relationship between water conservation and financial performance variables. In addition, OLS results showed a positive yet insignificant relationship between waste reduction and financial performance variables. The study recommends future research on a broader industrial study. The study further recommends future research on the effect of ecoefficiency variables on other corporate financial and non-financial success indicators. In addition, future researchers can extend the panel years to a period more than 10 years to check if the investments in eco-efficiency might significantly affect financial performance. Lastly, the researcher recommends that the survey be extended to the executive members and the company managers and that other analysis methods be used as an extension to the analysis used in this study. Thesis (Ph.D.Com. (Accounting)) -- University of Limpopo, 2024 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10386/5410 Sustainability of print media in the digital era : a study of selected South African newspapers Mabasa, Engetani Lucia In the digital age, the print media face numerous challenges. The rise of digital media, particularly new internet-based media, has aided to the downfall of print media. Traditional media, especially newspapers, experience both opportunities and threats from digital media. Owing to these challenges and threats to print media, several newspapers have ceased operations, while others have moved to digital formats. The purpose of this study is to determine the sustainability of print newspapers given the ongoing media digitalisation competition. This research focused on several strategies that media companies could employ to remain sustainable.On the other hand, there is a lack of research in South Africa on how print media companies can remain sustainable despite the many digital obstacles they face. Thus, the purpose of this study is to close this knowledge gap. Moreover, by evaluating strategies adopted by print newspapers to maintain the viability of their media companies in the digital age, the study sought to broaden the body of knowledge on the sustainability of print newspapers in the digital age. Furthermore, outlining some best practices and techniques, the study provided suitable approaches that media managers can use to properly handle and manage their media companies in the digital era. This study employed a qualitative methodology, drawing samples from readers, print media experts, and the practitioners of the selected print newspapers through interview processes. It examined various attempts in which newspapers achieve sustainability in the digital era. This was done using semi-structured interviews. It is important to note that media sustainability in the digital age extends beyond financial sustainability. It should consider its institutional and social sustainability. The findings reveal that, for print media companies to survive in the digital era, they should constantly promote subscriptions, interact with readers, and maintain their credibility and trustworthiness.Theoretically, mediamorphosis proved that print and digital media may coexist; the expansion of one does not always mean that the other would be diminished. This study has been able to further knowledge by outlining strategies for print newspapers to become sustainable in the digital age. Thesis (Ph.D. (Media Studies)) -- University of Limpopo, 2025 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10386/5409 Ethical broadcasting standards in South African podcasting : an exploratory study Nong, Kgabo Jonas This study explored the ethical standards in South African podcasting. It analysed how podcasts navigate the principles of media ethics such as respect for privacy, harm avoidance, truthfulness, and the prevention of defamation. The study also explored how podcasting’s unregulated nature contributes to the dissemination of controversial content, including misogynistic remarks, derogatory statements about the LGBTQI+ community, and the objectification of women. The theoretical framework entailed two theories, namely; the Diffusion of Innovation and Media Policy Theory. This qualitative study used content analysis and semi-structured interviews for data collection from a total of five (5) radio presenters. The findings of this study indicate the significant gaps in ethical adherence in Podcast and Chill with MacG with content prioritising sensationalism over ethical considerations. The lack of regulation in podcasting is identified as a contributing factor to the perpetuation of harmful narratives impacting societal attitudes and public trust in media. The study concludes by recommending that South African podcasts adopt ethical practices that promote inclusivity, respect, and accountability. Furthermore, it suggests collaboration among regulatory bodies, content creators, and advocacy groups to ensure the sustainable growth of podcasting as a medium that reflects democratic values and fosters positive societal change. Thesis (M. A. (Media Studies)) -- University of Limpopo, 2025 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/10386/5408 The design, synthesis, and antitubercular properties of the tri-substituted benzofuran derivatives Mojapelo, Semola Kabelo Tri-Substituted benzofuran derivatives exhibit greater biological activities influenced by natural compounds with highest potency, selectivity, and multifunctionality. Naturally occurring benzofuran with hydroxyl, methoxy, phenyl modification in different position showed antimicrobial, anticancer, antitubercular, and neuroprotective activities. These modification groups can influence lipophilicity, binding affinity and membrane permeability of mycobacterium tuberculosis which impact bioactivity. The aim of the study was to design, synthesise, and evaluate the anti-tubercular properties of the tri-substituted benzofuran derivatives. 5-iodovanillin 1B was made by iodinating commercially available vanillin 1A in a 92% yield. 2-(substituted)-7-methoxybenzofuran-5-carbaldehydes 2A-2E were produced by a Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction with palladium using a variety of acetylenes in a 60–80% yield. 2-(substituted)-7-methoxybenzofuran-5-carbaldehydes (2A-2E) were reduced with sodium borohydride in ethanol at room temperature, producing 2-substituted-7-methoxybenzofuran-5-ylmethanols (3A-3E) in a 60–82% yield. The esterification of the 2-substituted-7-methoxybenzofuran-5-carbaldehydes 3A-3E was catalysed by a Mukaiyama catalyst with several carboxylic acids in dichloromethane at room temperature, producing esters 3A1-3E5 in 40–80% yields. FTIR and NMR spectroscopy were used to characterise each of the synthesised substances. The online platform ADMET3.0 was used to perform the ADMET characteristics of esters 3A1-3E5. The antimycobacterial, cytotoxic, and solubility properties of every synthesised compound were assessed biologically. Several trisubstituted benzofuran derivatives that were synthesised demonstrated antimycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb H37Rv) activity. For example, compound 3B3 showed good activity in all three media used with less toxicity. Additionally, six compounds (2A, 3A, 3A2, 2B, 3B, and 3B1) showed solubility results ranging between 5-195 μM. Compound 3B showed the best solubility of 195 μM but poor antitubercular activity in all three media used. On the contrary, compound 2A showed promising antimycobacterial activity of 2.02-18.08 μM in two media but had poor solubility of less than 5 μM. Additionally, compound 3A2 demonstrated activity in one medium (7H9/CAS/Glu/Tx), whereas compound 3B1 demonstrated activity in two media (7H9/ADC/Glu/Tw and 7H9/ADC/Glu/Tx). Both compounds displayed comparable outcomes, including good solubility at 50 μM and cytotoxicity at or above 50 μM, respectively. Thesis (M.Sc. (Chemistry)) -- University of Limpopo, 2025 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z