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Transmission mechanism of public concern in waste-sorting policy: Evidence from text mining

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  • Binfeng Shi

Abstract

An escalating amount of urban waste poses a significant threat to the sustainable growth of cities. Therefore, a waste-sorting policy is crucial for the advancement of humankind. The implementation of a waste-sorting policy relies heavily on public participation to ensure effective governance. This study examines public participation in urban waste-sorting by mining more than 580,000 microblog texts related to waste-sorting from 2012 to 2022, using data from Sina Weibo, China's leading social media platform. My findings indicate that (1) residents’ attention to and support for mandatory waste-sorting policies varies by region; (2) widespread public interest stimulates publicity, education, and commercial entertainment related to waste-sorting policies and investment in thematically related sectors; (3) residents in regions with high education and income levels are more likely to generate waste and pay greater attention to waste-sorting policies; and (4) the promotion of waste-sorting policies affects knowledge dissemination. This study combines textual analysis and econometric techniques to offer a fresh perspective on the significance of public participation in promoting waste-sorting policies. It serves as an invaluable resource for governments to implement waste-sorting policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Binfeng Shi, 2024. "Transmission mechanism of public concern in waste-sorting policy: Evidence from text mining," Energy & Environment, , vol. 35(3), pages 1616-1636, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:engenv:v:35:y:2024:i:3:p:1616-1636
    DOI: 10.1177/0958305X231217634
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