SOCIO-CHEMICAL DETERMINANTS OF PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND BEHAVIOURAL RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION IN INDUSTRIAL COMMUNITIES

Industrial pollution presents serious health and environmental risks, but public perception and behavioural responses to these hazards are shaped by a complex interplay of chemical realities and social factors. This interdisciplinary mini review explores how sensory experiences, cognitive biases, institutional trust, environmental stigma, and sociodemographic characteristics influence how industrial communities perceive pollution and take action. Sensory cues such as odours and visible emissions often play a dominant role in shaping awareness, sometimes overshadowing scientific measurements. Psychological biases, including feelings of personal invulnerability and the tendency to view one’s immediate environment as safer than it objectively is, can distort risk perceptions and hinder protective behaviours. Institutional trust is a critical determinant of public engagement; when trust in authorities and regulators is low, skepticism and social activism increase, while transparent communication fosters cooperation. Environmental stigma can deeply affect community identity and wellbeing, leading to avoidance behaviours and social withdrawal even amid remediation efforts. Sociodemographic factors such as gender, income, education, and proximity to pollution sources—moderate risk perception and responses across diverse populations. Participatory monitoring initiatives that engage residents in data collection have shown promise in bridging the gap between subjective perceptions and objective environmental data, enhancing awareness and empowering communities. By integrating insights from both chemical and social sciences, this review highlights the importance of holistic, cross-disciplinary approaches for managing industrial pollution and supporting resilient, informed communities.