Gains or losses of biogas: The point of view of inhabitants from Central and Eastern European perspective

Anaerobic digestion plants are important producers of sustainable electricity and heat. However, lower social awareness and acceptance is an obstacle to their development. Our study aims to evaluate the key factors influencing the acceptance of such facilities. 446 respondents from four affected communities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia took part in the survey. Quantitative multivariate techniques were used to test the impact of independent variables (gender, age, education, economic status, native, proximity, country) on the dependent variable (perception of eight potential negative impacts). Overall, residents reported various negative impacts of plant operation, particularly in terms of reduced quality of life resulting from unpleasant smells, emissions, and increased traffic. Additionally, concerns were expressed regarding the economic viability. The downsides associated with the impact on tourism and the fall in property prices were the least perceived negative impacts. National context, place and space were identified as key determinants of how plants are perceived. They are predominantly perceived in a negative light by those who live near them, followed by native people. On the other hand, socio-economic and demographic factors were found to have no influence on the perceived disadvantages of the operation of plants in the Central and Eastern European region.