Why do neighbors have different environmental priorities? Analysis of environmental risk perception in a beirut neighborhood

Differences in environmental priorities within an urban neighborhood of Beirut are analyzed. The explanatory capabilities of five categories of contextual variables are compared: socioeconomic status, locality, health, behavior, and environmental beliefs. Semi-structured interviews with key individuals in the community and residents were first conducted. Four environmental issues of concern were identified. A survey was carried out to identify the relative priority accorded by respondents to these four issues, and to measure variables likely to explain differences of opinion. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted for each of the four problems. The 99% confidence interval (CI) of the odds ratio (OR) was used as a test of significance. Respondents suffering from a respiratory disease (OR = 6.94, 99% CI = 1.54-31.25), those living in less crowded houses (OR = 4.88, 99% CI = 1.38-17.24), and those not living close to the neighborhood's industrial street (OR=5.26, 99% CI = 1.01-27.78) are significantly more likely to rank poor air quality first. Significant associations are found between poor water quality as first priority and nonpresence of a smoker in the household (OR = 6.12, 99% CI = 1.84-20.32) and perception of water salinity as a problem (OR = 7.46, 99% CI = 1.50-37.03). Males (OR = 6.94, 99% CI = 1.02-47.62) and tenants versus owners (OR = 10.49, 99% CI = 1.36-80.61) are significantly more likely to rank the residential-industrial mix first. Socioeconomic variables retain their explanatory capability in the studied neighborhood, despite relatively small income disparities. Behavioral variables, such as smoking, may be causative factors of priorities. Analyzing relative priorities, rather than concern or lack of it, reveals more complex patterns of association. Identifying environmental-perception divide lines can help develop a more inclusive and effective participatory environmental management.