Understanding individual-level protective responses to air pollution warning: A case study of Beijing, China

Air pollution is harmful to human health; effective interventions are therefore, needed for health protection. The aim of this study was to explore the main protective measures taken by residents under air pollution warnings, and the factors that affect warning response and mode of intervention. Descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, and binary logit models were used to analyze the data obtained from the respondents. The results demonstrate the different levels of air pollution warning were correctly understood, but that the warning response rate was nevertheless low. Television and the Internet were the primary sources for receiving warnings and related information about protective measures. Major measures taken by respondents included wearing smog masks, modifying diet, using air filters, and reducing the time spent outdoors. Warning response is associated with knowledge of warning, perception of health risks of air pollution, and gender of respondents. The research also revealed that protective measures taken by male and female respondents were influenced by different sets of factors. This study clarify the factors that determine whether residents take protective measures in response to warnings, and the strategic interventions necessary to warn people effectively. Policy makers can use this research to improve the effectiveness of air pollution warnings.