The effect of distance on risk perception towards waste incineration plants: a comparison between local residents living within 0–3 km versus 3–8 km in Dongguan, Southern China

Abstract

Waste incineration is becoming the dominant method of waste disposal globally, including in China. Local residents are concerned about the potential negative impacts of waste incineration plants (WIPs) on their environment and health. This study aimed to measure the differences of risk perception of local residents living within 0–3 km versus those living 3–8 km distant from a WIP and explore other factors associated with risk perception. A cross-sectional study was conducted in communities surrounding three municipal WIPs in Dongguan, China. Of 881 residents randomly selected, 454 lived within 0–3 km and 427 lived 3–8 km from their local WIP. Differences in risk perception between the two groups and factors associated with risk perception were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. Seventy percent of the residents reported a high overall risk perception towards the WIPs. Overall risk perceptions, perceived health effects, and psychological stress domains were not significantly different between those living within 0–3 km and 3–8 km groups after adjusting for other variables. The effect of distance on risk perception was modified by social trust, as the study found that those in the 0–3 km group having low social trust had significantly higher risk perception. Gender, marital status, housing type, and duration of residence were independently associated with risk perception. Social trust is an important factor in alleviating the residents’ risk perceptions towards a WIP, and is further affected by the distance from the WIP. It is essential for WIP governors to provide accurate information about WIPs to their residents along with good quality control.