Analysis of influencing factors on public perception in contaminated site management: Simulation by structural equation modeling at four sites in China. (15th March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Xiaonuo; Chen, Weiping; Cundy, Andrew B.; Chang, Andrew C.; Jiao, Wentao
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 210(2018)
• Page Start: 299
• Page End: 306
• Publication Date: 2018-03-15
• Subjects: Questionnaire interview -- Structural equation modeling -- Public perception -- Contaminated site -- Remediation -- China; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.01.029
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Public perception towards contaminated site management, a not readily quantifiable latent parameter, was linked through structural equation modeling in this paper to 22 measurable/observable manifest variables associated with the extent of information dissemination and public knowledge of soil pollution, attitude towards remediation policies, and participation in risk mitigation processes. Data obtained through a survey of 412 community residents at four remediation sites in China were employed in the model validation. The outcomes showed that public perception towards contaminated site management might be explained through selected measurable parameters in five categories, namely information disclosure, knowledge of soil pollution, expectations of remediation and redevelopment outcomes, public participation, and site policy, along with their interactions. Among these, information dissemination and attitude towards management policies exhibited significant influence in promoting positive public perception. Based on these examples, responsible agencies therefore should focus on public accessibility to reliable information, and encourage public inputs into policies for contaminated site management, in order to gain public confidence during remediation and regeneration projects. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Factors influencing public perception were simulated by Structural Equation Modeling. Data obtained from four remediation sites in China were used for model validation. Public perception can be modelled and explained by measurable variables. Information transparency contributes most strongly in enhancing public perception. Understanding of policy and participation in decision making should be encouraged.