The socioeconomic determinants of indoor air pollution in Pakistan: a case study of Multan District

Indoor air pollution (IAP) has received little consideration, especially in Pakistan; that’s why it is necessary to create more awareness among people and policymakers about IAP. Therefore, this study has been designed to analyze the impact of socioeconomic factors on IAP in the Multan district using a comprehensive dataset from 400 households in the Multan district. A binary logistic model, independent sample t-test, and one-way ANOVA analysis have been conducted to estimate the results. The presence of IAP has been measured with PM2.5 (particulate matter) readings using an air quality meter. The results of the current study revealed that the variables, like household head age, household head education, environmental concern, environmental awareness, number of cooking hours, presence of ventilation, any member smoke in a house, kitchen location, house status, and use of air cleaning device are statistically significant to influence indoor air quality. The study demonstrated that socioeconomic factors are correlated with the severity of indoor air pollution in the Multan district. That is why special initiatives are necessary to improve the socioeconomic status of households, which will create environmental awareness and concern among people about indoor pollution.