Hanri Taljaard-Swart
Dr Hanri Taljaard-Swart is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Consumer and Food Sciences at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Her research focuses on advancing sustainability and circular economy principles through sustainable product development and consumption in the clothing and textile sector. She holds a PhD in Consumer Science (Clothing Management), during which her doctoral research explored the role of basic psychological needs and self-determined motivation in voluntary simplistic clothing consumption practices among South African consumers. Her research encompasses sustainable consumption, recycling and upcycling, re-commerce, second-hand clothing consumption, collaborative consumption, product attachment, clothing care practices, cultural heritage, and community engagement. More recently, she has expanded her work through trans- and interdisciplinary collaborations in sustainable food systems and consumer behaviour, reflecting the interconnected nature of contemporary sustainability challenges. Her research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Through partnerships with industry, communities, and academia, she seeks to promote sustainable consumer behaviour, environmentally responsible product development, and local economic empowerment. Dr Taljaard-Swart has published in leading international journals, supervises master's and doctoral students, and regularly presents her research at national and international conferences. Through research, teaching, community engagement, and collaboration with industry and community partners, she strives to develop innovative solutions that promote responsible consumption, strengthen South Africa's clothing and textile sector, and contribute to a more sustainable future.