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The impact of public environmental concern on environmental pollution: The moderating effect of government environmental regulation

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  • Nengyu Liu
  • Yue Liu
  • Xiaofei Yu

Abstract

As environmental problems continue to intensify, public environmental awareness and participation have become key forces in a modernized environmental governance system. Recognizing the importance of public participation in environmental governance, this study explores the influence of public pressure on environmental pollution and its implications for China’s long-term environmental management efforts. Using statistical and internet search data from 284 prefecture-level cities between 2011 and 2020, the study finds that a 1% increase in public environmental concern leads to a 0.009% reduction in pollution. The study also highlights the strengthening effect of government environmental regulation on the impact of public environmental concern. Moreover, regional heterogeneity analysis reveals a stronger effect of public environmental concern in cities facing low economic pressure. The findings of the study provide a reference for the construction of a coordinated and sustainable environmental governance model in China as well as in developing countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Nengyu Liu & Yue Liu & Xiaofei Yu, 2023. "The impact of public environmental concern on environmental pollution: The moderating effect of government environmental regulation," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 18(8), pages 1-16, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0290255
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290255
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Wang, Zhiwei & Zhang, Xianfeng & Ding, Chenxin & Sun, Hui, 2025. "Can digital environmental monitoring alleviate environmental inequality? Evidence from ambient air quality standards in China," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 207(C).

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