1

Environmental issues and environmental justice are severe problems in the US

that disproportionately affect low-income communities and communities of color.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), environmental justice is

"the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color,

national origin, or income to develop, implement, and enforce environmental laws,

regulations, and policies." (EPA, 2021).

In the US, low-income communities and communities of color are

disproportionately exposed to hazardous air pollutants, contaminated water sources,

and inadequate waste management systems. Since these communities are often

located near industrial facilities, landfills, and other places where pollutants are created

or stored, they often lack the resources and political power to advocate for their

environmental rights and hold corporations accountable for their environmental impacts.

For example, a 2017 report from the US Commission on Civil Rights found that

African Americans are “disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards” due to “a

long history of discriminatory policies and practices” (USCCR, 2017). The report noted

that African Americans are more likely than whites to live in communities with hazardous

waste sites, contaminated drinking water, and higher levels of air pollution.

The consequences of environmental injustice can be severe, leading to long-term

health problems, economic hardship, and social inequities. A 2020 report from the

National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) found that low-income communities and

communities of color are more likely to suffer from the health effects of air pollution than
 2

other communities. The report also noted that environmental justice issues are

"intertwined" with poverty, racism, and a lack of access to quality healthcare.

In order to address these issues, the EPA has established an Office of

Environmental Justice to ensure that all communities have access to clean air, clean

water, and a healthy environment. The EPA also works with state and local governments

to promote environmental justice initiatives, such as providing grants to communities for

environmental cleanup and enforcement efforts.

Ultimately, it is clear that environmental justice is a serious issue in the US. Low-

income communities and communities of color are disproportionately exposed to

hazardous air pollutants, contaminated water sources, and inadequate waste

management systems. The consequences of this exposure can be severe, leading to

long-term health problems, economic hardship, and social inequities. In order to

address these issues, the US government must continue to invest in environmental

justice initiatives and hold corporations accountable for their environmental impacts.

Environmental issues and justice are constantly in the news and of great concern

in the United Kingdom. The UK is a world leader in environmental policy, but the country

is still facing many environmental issues that threaten the health and well-being of its

people. Issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, air pollution, and water

scarcity are great concerns.

Climate change is a major environmental issue in the UK and will likely cause

several serious consequences for the country. It is estimated that the UK will experience

an increase in average temperatures of 2–3 °C by the end of the century, with greater

heat waves and an increase in extreme weather events (Lenton et al., 2008), this could
 3

have a devastating effect on the country’s infrastructure, health, and agricultural

production.

Biodiversity loss is another serious environmental issue. The UK is home to a

diverse range of species, including plants, animals, and insects, and the loss of these

species could seriously impact the UK's ecosystems. The UK also faces threats from

invasions of non-native species, which can alter the balance of native species and lead

to further biodiversity loss (Robinson, 2007).

Air pollution is also a major concern in the UK. Air pollution is caused by various

sources, such as traffic, industry, and agriculture, and can seriously impact human

health. Air pollution can cause a range of respiratory and cardiac illnesses and an

increased risk of cancer (Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, 2019).

Water scarcity is another major environmental issue in the UK. The UK faces

increasing pressure to conserve water due to growing populations and changing

weather patterns. The UK is already facing water shortages in some areas, and the

situation will likely worsen (Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, 2019).

Environmental justice is also an important issue in the UK. A growing body of

evidence suggests that environmental injustices disproportionately affect certain

communities, such as those living in deprived areas or minority ethnic groups (Blowers

& Lister, 2007). These communities often face the worst environmental impacts, such as

air pollution, water shortages, and flooding. The UK must address these issues and

ensure all communities can access a safe and healthy environment.

In conclusion, the UK faces several serious environmental issues that must be

addressed to ensure its people's health and well-being. Climate change, biodiversity
 4

loss, air pollution, and water scarcity are all of great concern and could devastate the

country. Furthermore, a growing body of evidence suggests that environmental

injustices disproportionately affect certain communities. It is, therefore, essential that the

UK take action to address these issues and ensure that all communities have access to

a safe and healthy environment.

In China, environmental issues are becoming increasingly serious and

widespread. In particular, air and water pollution are two of the country's most serious

and pressing environmental issues. According to a 2019 report by Greenpeace East

Asia, approximately half of China's population is exposed to air quality that fails to meet

the World Health Organization's standards (Ouyang et al., 2019). Additionally, the report

found that over 80% of China's groundwater is polluted (Ouyang et al., 2019).

Environmental justice is also a concern in China, as certain disadvantaged populations,

such as the rural poor and ethnic minorities, are disproportionately affected by

environmental degradation (Greenpeace East Asia, 2019). The government has

implemented several policies to mitigate environmental issues, but these are often

inadequate or poorly enforced and do not adequately address the issue of

environmental justice (Greenpeace East Asia, 2019).

Environmental issues and environmental justice in Europe are increasingly

important due to global climate change and the degradation of the environment. It is

estimated that in Europe alone, up to one million people are affected by air pollution and

water contamination (European Environmental Agency, 2019), while global warming and

climate change are having a significant impact on the continent’s ecosystems,

biodiversity, and food security (Gornitz, 2019). The impacts of environmental issues in
 5

Europe are not just felt by those exposed. As Europe's population continues to grow, the

demands on natural resources increase, and with it, the potential for environmental

injustice (Skutsch, 2009).

Environmental justice is a concept that seeks to ensure that residents of all

communities have equal access to clean air and water, safe and healthy working

conditions, and other environmental benefits. It also strives to protect vulnerable

populations from the disproportionate impacts of environmental degradation, such as

those experienced by the poor and minority communities in Europe (Skutsch, 2009). In

the wake of recent natural disasters, such as severe floods and droughts, it is clear that

local and national governments must take environmental justice seriously.

In order to address environmental issues and justice in Europe, governments

need to implement policies that promote sustainable development, reduce greenhouse

gas emissions, and conserve natural resources, this includes the adoption of green

energy sources, the promotion of energy efficiency, and the implementation of

regulations to reduce air pollution and water contamination (European Environmental

Agency, 2019; Gornitz, 2019). Additionally, governments must ensure that vulnerable

populations are not disproportionately affected by ecological disasters and are provided

with adequate support in times of need.

Ultimately, European environmental issues and justice are serious matters

requiring urgent attention and action. By implementing effective policies and regulations,

governments can ensure that all citizens can access the environmental benefits they

deserve and that vulnerable populations are not left behind in times of crisis.
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Environmental issues in Asia have become increasingly serious, with air

pollution, water pollution, land degradation, deforestation, overfishing, and climate

change all impacting the region. These issues pose a significant threat to public health,

economic development, and the well-being of communities in Asia and beyond.

Air pollution is one of Asia's most pervasive and dangerous environmental

issues. In 2019, seven Asian cities made the list of the world’s 15 most polluted cities,

including four in India and three in China (Greenpeace International, 2021). This air

pollution is linked to increased respiratory illnesses, heart and lung diseases, and

premature deaths (Greenpeace International, 2021). In addition, air pollution has been

linked to climate change, as it contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases leading

to global warming.

Water pollution is another major environmental issue in Asia. Industrialization and

agricultural activities have increased pollution levels in the region's rivers, lakes, and

coastal waters (World Bank, 2021), resulting in water-borne diseases, depleted fish

populations, and polluted drinking water sources.

Land degradation is another environmental issue in Asia. Over-cultivation, soil

erosion, deforestation, overgrazing, and illegal logging have all led to land degradation

in the region (World Bank, 2021) and have harmed agricultural productivity, biodiversity,

and water availability.

In addition to the environmental issues affecting Asia, there is an increasing

focus on environmental justice. Environmental justice is defined as the fair distribution of

environmental benefits and burdens and the right of all people to live in a healthy, safe,

and sustainable environment (Bruch & Kretzmann, 2017). In Asia, there is a lack of
 7

access to clean water, air, and resources to address environmental issues. Which has

led to the marginalization of certain communities, such as the indigenous people in

India, who are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation (Bruch &

Kretzmann, 2017).

In conclusion, environmental issues have become increasingly serious in Asia,

with air and water pollution, land degradation, and climate change all posing a

significant threat to public health, economic development, and the well-being of

communities. Additionally, environmental justice issues are becoming increasingly

important, as environmental degradation disproportionately affects certain communities.

The Philippines faces a wide range of environmental issues, from increasing air

pollution to deforestation and the devastation of coral reefs. These issues are

exacerbated by economic disparities, making environmental justice an important topic in

the country. Air pollution, for example, is highly concentrated in the cities, with the most

severe levels found in Metro Manila. According to the World Health Organization, in

2018, Metro Manila had the highest levels of PM 2.5, a type of air pollutant, worldwide;

this has been linked to an increase in respiratory illnesses, particularly among

vulnerable communities, such as those living in poverty.

Deforestation is another serious environmental issue in the Philippines.

According to the World Resources Institute, the country has lost more than 4 million

hectares of forest since 2000 due to unsustainable logging and agricultural practices.

The actions have led to decreased biodiversity, soil erosion, and extreme weather

events. Furthermore, the destruction of forests has disproportionately affected

indigenous communities, as they rely on forests for their livelihoods.

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Finally, the Philippines also faces threats to its marine ecosystems due to

overfishing and coastal development. Coral reefs, which provide habitat for various

species, are particularly vulnerable. According to a Coastal Conservation and Education

Foundation report, almost half of the country's coral reefs are threatened due to human

activities, and this has led to a decline in fish populations, which has harmed local

communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods.

Overall, the Philippines is facing numerous environmental issues that are

devastatingly affecting the country's ecosystems and communities. Environmental

justice is an important issue in the country, as vulnerable communities are

disproportionately affected by pollution, deforestation, and overfishing. Policies must be

implemented to protect the environment and ensure all communities have access to a

healthy and safe environment.

One of the research gaps in the study of the moderating effect of political

Ideology and socioeconomic status on the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice among residents is the

lack of studies on the intersection of the two variables. Previous research has focused

on the individual effects of political Ideology and socioeconomic status. However, there

is a lack of research on how these two variables interact and influence environmental

justice attitudes (Rice & Weatherby, 2017). Additionally, there is a need for research to

examine the moderating effect of political Ideology and socioeconomic status on the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice among specific populations, such as minority groups (Rice &

Weatherby, 2017). This research gap is particularly important because it can provide
 9

insight into how different populations are affected by environmental justice issues

differently and how these differences can be addressed.

The present study explores the moderating effect of political Ideology and

Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of Environmental Issues

and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice among residents in Angeles City. It

specifically aims to answer the following questions:

1. How may the respondents' political Ideology be described in terms of:

a. Liberal views and;

b. Conservative views?

2. How may the respondents' socioeconomic status be described in terms of:

a. Gender;

b. Civil Status;

c. Education; and

d. Income?

3. How may the respondents' awareness of environmental issues be described?

4. How may the respondents’ attitudes toward environmental justice be described in

terms of:

a) environmental participation;

b) public participation;

c) environmental law;

d) development of plans, programs, and policies relating to the environment;

e) participation in environmental decision-making; and

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f) access to justice.

5. Is there a significant relationship between awareness of environmental issues

and attitudes toward environmental justice?

6. Does Political Ideology moderate the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice?

7. Does socioeconomic status moderate the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice?

The following is the hypothesis that is used as guidance in the study:

Hypothesis 1. There is no significant relationship between awareness of environmental

issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

Hypothesis 2. Political Ideology has no moderating effect on the relationship between

awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

Hypothesis 3. Socioeconomic status does not moderate the relationship between

Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes toward Environmental Justice.

This thesis aims to examine the moderating effects of political Ideology and

socioeconomic Status on the relationship between awareness of environmental issues

and attitudes toward environmental justice among residents in Angeles City, Philippines.

The thesis will focus on the impact of political Ideology and socioeconomic status on the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice. The study will also explore how different political ideologies and

socioeconomic statuses influence the relationship between awareness of environmental

issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

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The thesis is limited to examining the moderating effects of political Ideology and

socioeconomic Status on the relationship between awareness of environmental issues

and attitudes toward environmental justice among residents of Angeles City, Philippines.

The study does not consider other factors influencing the relationship, such as age,

gender, education level, and cultural and religious beliefs.

Furthermore, the study is limited to Angeles City, Philippines residents and does

not include other cities or regions in the country. Additionally, the study's sample size is

limited, which may affect the accuracy of the results. Lastly, the study only looks at

attitudes toward environmental justice and does not assess actual behaviors or actions

taken to promote environmental justice.

The findings of this study will contribute to the benefit of the community, future

researchers, environmentalists, marginalized communities, the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and to law enforcement agencies; in

consideration of the important role of environmental justice in our society as a form of

knowledge of understanding and addressing in recognition of the impending

environmental and social problems alike. The study is concentrated on promoting a

further just and equitable distribution of environmental risks and welfare among the

general population, as well as providing truthful, credible, and reliable data which may

be used and improved by future researchers. Along with these, the result of the study

shall have a needed and expected importance to the sectors as follows:

The Community: The community will have the knowledge and a better

understanding of the factors which affect the unequal distribution of environmental risks
 12

and benefits; it may also serve as a form of awareness as to the issues surrounding the

topic. In addition to that, it may help advocate and promote public discourse and action

to address the current issues surrounding environmental justice.

Future Researchers: As not much data and information may be present

concerning the factors that cause environmental injustice, this study is responsible for

yielding results that must be usable and free from any unethical misconduct.

Furthermore, the study must provide credible and reliable information to promote

truthfulness to future research and researchers.

Environmentalists: To serve as one of the reasons for motivating the public

towards the advocation of environmental equality, additionally, to provide useful

information backed by research which may be disseminated to the public and to those

who may be unaware of the current issues.

Marginalized Communities: As environmental justice may exist, to serve as a

pillar advocating for the right to an equally healthful and clean environment for all, the

results shall also empower those lacking sufficient knowledge, political power,

resources, and information to protect themselves from environmental harm.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources: It may serve as a providence to

new laws that would help solve the current issues regarding environmental justice; if

not, it may help serve as a form of reason to adjust or create laws that will help solve

the current issues.

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Law enforcement: Law enforcement may be further integrated through the basic

application of ecological justice.

The following are the terms used in the study:

According to Perry (2022), Political Ideology is defined as the set of beliefs of

how certain beliefs or groups see the world and its government. In addition, it is the

standard that establishes a foundation of a political organization. Moreover, as stated by

Freeden (2022), this also tackles and makes plans of action for the public to modify the

arrangement of a political community.

According to the Department of Energy (n.d.), Environmental Justice is the fair

treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national

origin, or income, to develop, implement, and enforce environmental laws, regulations,

and policies. Furthermore, as stated by The National Institute of Environmental Health

Sciences (n.d.), it is a term that entails and assures that everyone has an equally fair

chance of living their healthiest state and life possible. Thus, given this circumstance,

less fortunate people may be exposed to unhealthy environments. On the other hand,

people who belong to the upper hierarchy are privileged enough to live in a safer and

cleaner environment. According to Smollin (2019), Environmental justice is a notion that

must be addressed concerning the social, economic, and political issues that influence

the experiences of affected populations.

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According to the American Psychological Association (APA), socioeconomic

status is defined as "the social standing or class of an individual or group (Broer et al.,

2019).

As referred to by Tan et al. (2021), environmental issues are initially local

problems but can evolve to become issues that may affect a global scale or major
political issues.

Moderating effects (also referred to as "moderators") are factors that influence

the strength or direction of a relationship between two variables (Chen, 2017, pp. 1093-

1094). Moderators can be thought of as "third" variables that mediate the relationship

between two "first" variables, such as when a leader's emotional intelligence moderates

the relationship between their authoritarian leadership style and the satisfaction of their

employees (Chen, 2017, pp. 1093-1094). Moderators can also refer to the effect of

context, such as how a person's culture can moderate the effects of a particular

intervention on their behavior (Liu & Wang, 2019).

Awareness of environmental issues is understanding the impact of human

activities on the environment and the urgency of acting to protect the planet. This

includes understanding the causes and consequences of climate change, the

importance of sustainable development, and the need to conserve natural resources.

(Garcia-Santos, 2016).

Attitude towards environmental justice is the general outlook or perspective of

individuals and groups towards environmental justice. Environmental justice is a

movement that advocates for the fair and equitable treatment of people of all races,

classes, and cultures in the development and enforcement of environmental laws,

 15

regulations, and policies (Krajick, 2015). It ensures everyone can access clean air,

water, and land resources. Attitude towards environmental justice is thus the

awareness, acceptance, and promotion of this concept to create a more equitable

environment.

Environmental Justice (EJ) is a concept primarily interested in the fair

dissemination of environmental quality and burdens among distinct communities and

social classes. It acknowledges that disadvantaged communities, such as communities

of different races and colors and poverty-stricken communities, are inordinately affected

by environmental threats and are frequently precluded from the decision-making

processes that cause an impact on their health and well-being (Mitchell, 2018). EJ

advocates argue that all populations, regardless of ethnicity, race, and socioeconomic

Status (SES), have the right to have and live in a healthy and safe environment.

However, research has shown that EJ issues persist, particularly in marginalized

communities.

According to Smollin and Lubitow (Environmental Justice and Interventions to

Prevent Environmental Injustice in the United States, 2019), people of different color,

native ethnicity experiences, and low-income minorities experience a different level of

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injurious consequences relevant to their exposure to environmental toxins (p.433-440).

These environmental hazards can significantly impact the health and well-being of the

community; it may be especially true for those who lack the political power or resources

to resist or reduce their effect.

The study notes that there may be an underlying political and socioeconomic

barrier that may impede the progress of addressing environmental inequalities, such

may be the resistance of the big corporations that highly contribute toward the pollution

in our environment and those who lack the political will to advocate or contribute in

addressing the environmental issues.

On the other hand, a study published in 2021 in the "Journal of Environmental

Management" investigated the relationship between political Ideology and the support

for renewable energy policies. According to the authors (Ke et al., 2021), individuals

who are identified as politically conservative are less likely to support renewable

policies; however, this effect was moderated by environmental concern. Specifically,

conservative individuals expressing higher environmental concerns were more likely to

support renewable energy policies.

Another study published in 2020 in the "Journal of Environmental Psychology"

analyzed the effects of political Ideology and socioeconomic Status on the relationship

between environmental concerns and the support for environmental justice. In this

study, it was found that both political Ideology and socioeconomic status were

contributing factors toward the viewed perception of environmental justice, an individual

who is identified as politically liberal, along with those who are high in socioeconomic

status, was found to have expressed greater support for environmental justice.
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Furthermore, the study also discovered that awareness of environmental issues,

regardless of political standpoint or Ideology and socioeconomic Status, was a

significant predictor of support for environmental justice (Zwicker et al., 2020).

The findings of these studies denote that there is a relationship between political

status and socioeconomic relations regarding environmental justice; however, it is not

certain how it is directly connected to the people themselves rather than just their

Ideology and socioeconomic Status as well as the underlying conditions of their

environment, by which, may cause a change in the study's findings should it be altered.

Hence, the change in the locus of the study may have a considerable significant change

on the results of the study; with this reason, the researchers now want to conduct the

study in the Philippines to provide an in-depth understanding as well as the underlying

factors that may or may not have an effect towards the perception of environmental

justice. Additionally, the researchers are focused on this topic to fill the gaps of the

preceding research and studies, providing useful and insightful knowledge and reliable

justification of facts and credible data to future researchers.

Furthermore, the researchers aim to ascertain the moderating effect of Political

Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of

Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice among residents in

Angeles City; whether the political or economic status of a person has a corresponding

effect on relation to an individual's belief system; an influence in their perception

towards the role of perceived environmental justice; and what are the factors that may

cause the influence.

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Environmental awareness recognizes the fragile and dynamic relationship

between humans and the natural world. It is the understanding of the environment and

its problems and the commitment to take action to protect and improve it. This literature

review will examine the current state of environmental awareness, focusing on

education and the media's role in raising awareness.

Research has indicated that education plays an important role in developing

environmental awareness. A study by Sjøberg and Sund (1996) found that

environmental education can lead to an increased understanding of environmental

issues and a commitment to conservation. They found that when students were

provided with a comprehensive and relevant environmental curriculum, they developed

a greater appreciation for the environment and a greater understanding of the need to

protect it. Similarly, a study by Harrington (2004) found that providing students with an

education emphasizing the importance of the environment and its protection can lead to

an increase in pro-environmental behavior.

The media plays an integral role in raising public awareness of environmental

issues. Studies have suggested that exposure to media coverage of environmental

issues may increase environmental concerns (Heath, 2000; McCombs & Shaw, 1972).

A study conducted by Gifford (2002) found that media coverage of environmental issues

can increase public support for environmental protection and increase willingness to

take action to protect the environment. Furthermore, a study conducted by Zillien and

McClung (2009) found that media coverage of environmental issues can lead to an

increased understanding of the need to protect the environment and an increased

willingness to take action.

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Research has indicated that education can lead to an increased understanding of

environmental issues and a commitment to take action to protect the environment.

Additionally, media coverage of environmental issues can lead to an increased

understanding of the need to take action and an increased willingness to do so.

Education and media are powerful tools for raising public awareness of environmental

issues and driving public action to protect the environment.

Environmental awareness is the conscious knowledge of environmental issues

and the ability to respond responsibly. The awareness of environmental issues has

evolved over the years due to the emergence of environmental science, environmental

activism, and environmental education (EE). Environmental science is a field of study

that focuses on the natural environment and its components. In contrast, environmental

activism and education seek to educate the public and promote environmental

protection. This literature review aims to analyze the current state of environmental

awareness and its impact on the public.

Environmental science has played a major role in increasing public awareness of

environmental issues. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on

the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the environment and its social and

economic implications. Environmental science has become increasingly important due

to the effects of human activities on the environment, such as climate change,

biodiversity loss, and air and water pollution. Through the study of environmental

science, the public can gain a better understanding of environmental problems and their

implications.
 20

Environmental activism and education are two approaches to building public

awareness about environmental issues. Environmental activism is a form of social

action that seeks to protect the environment from the effects of human activities.

Environmental activists often organize protests, public awareness campaigns, and other

forms of public engagement to promote environmental protection. On the other hand,

environmental education is a form of learning that seeks to educate the public about

environmental issues and promote environmental stewardship. Environmental

education is often conducted in schools and other educational institutions and can

include field trips, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities.

The impact of environmental awareness on the public has been widely studied,

and the findings suggest that increased awareness can result in positive changes in

behavior. According to a study by Gifford, environmental awareness can lead to

increased environmental knowledge, pro-environmental attitudes, and pro-

environmental behaviors (2011). Another study found that environmental education can

lead to increased environmental knowledge, positive attitudes toward the environment,

and an increased likelihood of engaging in pro-environmental behavior (Meng et al.,

2012). Moreover, environmental awareness can also lead to increased support for

environmental policies and initiatives (Liu et al., 2013).

This literature review has shown that environmental awareness has evolved over

the years due to the emergence of environmental science, environmental activism, and

environmental education. Environmental science provides the public with an

understanding of environmental problems, while environmental activism and education

promote environmental protection. The impact of environmental awareness on the

 21

public has been widely studied. The findings suggest that increased awareness can

lead to increased environmental knowledge, positive environmental attitudes, and pro-

environmental behaviors.

Socioeconomic status has been identified as a determinant of environmental

justice and health outcomes. In a comprehensive review of environmental justice

literature, Zakem et al. (2017) found that low-income communities and communities of

color disproportionately experience environmental harm, including exposure to

hazardous substances, poor air quality, and lack of clean and safe water. These

findings were consistent with the research of Bullard (1994), who first identified the link

between race and poverty and environmental injustices.

Low-income communities are more likely to experience the greatest exposure to

air pollutants due to their location near industrial and other sources of pollutants (Lopez

et al., 2013). In addition, such communities often lack the resources to advocate for

their rights and to challenge environmental injustices and discrimination. For example,

Lopez and colleagues (2013) found that minority communities in the United States are

more likely to experience the effects of environmental injustice due to the lack of

political power and economic resources to challenge discrimination or to fight for

environmental protection.

In addition to environmental exposures, socioeconomic status is linked to health

outcomes. Research has shown that disparities in health outcomes are linked to

economic status and access to health care (Lopez et al., 2013). For example, studies

have found that impoverished people are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses
 22

such as heart disease, diabetes, and asthma, due to their greater exposure to

environmental pollutants, inadequate access to health care, and poor nutrition (Lopez et

al., 2013).

The research has shown that socioeconomic status is a key driver of

environmental injustice and health disparities. Low-income communities and

communities of color are disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards. They

are more likely to suffer from poorer health outcomes due to their lack of resources to

challenge environmental discrimination and inadequate access to health care.

Environmental justice is a concept that involves the fair treatment and meaningful

involvement of all people, regardless of their race, color, national origin, or income, for

the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws and

regulations (Bullard, 2017). Socioeconomic Status (SES) is a key factor in

environmental justice, as it has been linked to various environmental health and safety

issues. Low-income communities, minority groups, and other marginalized populations

are disproportionally affected by environmental pollution due to their lower SES and lack

of resources (Bullard, 2017).

Research has found that lower SES is associated with higher exposure to

environmental hazards. Communities of color and low-income communities are more

likely to experience the negative impacts of hazardous waste sites, polluted drinking

water, and air pollution than their higher-income counterparts (Gale et al., 2019), which

is since these communities are more likely to live in areas near sources of pollution,

such as industrial sites, which can lead to exposure to toxins and other hazardous

materials (Bullard, 2017).

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In addition to exposure to environmental hazards, lower SES is also associated

with inadequate access to healthcare services. Low-income communities are more

likely to experience health problems related to environmental pollution due to their

limited access to healthcare services and resources (Gale et al., 2019); this can further

exacerbate the health disparities between low- and high-income populations.

Research has also found that lower SES is associated with lower public

participation in environmental decision-making. Low-income communities are less likely

to be involved in the decision-making process due to their lack of resources, such as

access to information and resources needed to participate in the process (Gale et al.,

2019). This can further perpetuate the cycle of environmental injustice and health

disparities in these communities.

The research has shown that socioeconomic status is a key factor in

environmental justice. Low-income communities are more likely to be exposed to

environmental hazards and experience negative health outcomes due to their lack of

resources and limited access to healthcare services. These communities are also less

likely to be involved in the decision-making process, further perpetuating the cycle of

environmental injustice.

Environmental justice is an important concept in public discourse due to its focus

on the environmental inequities that often arise in communities of different

socioeconomic statuses. Traditionally, environmental justice emerged from recognizing

widespread health disparities between lower-income and minority communities and

wealthier white communities concerning air and water pollution (Levin et al., 2019).

These disparities are often rooted in the unequal distribution of resources and the lack
 24

of access to sustainable energy sources, such as clean energy technology, in lower-

income communities (Sartor et al.,2018).

Recent research has further explored the link between environmental justice and

socioeconomic Status (SES). For example, a study conducted by Mallampalli et al.

(2017) examined how SES influences the ability of communities to access clean energy

sources. The authors found that lower SES communities were more likely to be

exposed to higher levels of air pollution due to their lack of access to clean energy

sources. This finding highlights the need for policies that promote environmental justice

and equitable access to clean energy sources.

Other research has focused on how SES impacts the ability of communities to

advocate for environmental justice. For instance, López-López et al. (2018) found that

lower SES communities were less likely to be involved in environmental justice

initiatives due to a lack of resources and knowledge. This suggests that policies that

promote access to education and resources could help to empower lower-income

communities to advocate for environmental justice.

This research on environmental justice and SES has made it clear that disparities

in access to clean energy sources and resources for advocacy exist between lower- and

higher-income communities. These disparities will likely continue until policies that

ensure equitable access to resources and knowledge are implemented.

Environmental justice is a growing concern that has received increasing attention

from researchers in recent years. It is the idea that individuals and communities should

receive equal protection from environmental hazards and not be disproportionately

exposed to environmental risks. This literature review will explore the attitudes of
 25

individuals and communities towards environmental justice, including how perceptions

of justice influence support for environmental policies.

One of the main attitudes associated with environmental justice is the perception

of fairness and equity (O'Neill, 2003). Studies have shown that people are more likely to

support environmental policies when they perceive them as fair and equitable, such as

those that place the burden of environmental protection on those most responsible for

environmental harm (García-Lamarca, 2017). Furthermore, when individuals perceive

environmental protection policies as fair, they are more likely to favor them, regardless

of their benefit (Mendes et al., 2017).

Another attitude associated with environmental justice is awareness of

environmental issues (Clayton et al., 2017). Studies have shown that when individuals

are informed about environmental issues, they are more likely to support environmental

policies (García-Lamarca, 2017). Furthermore, research has shown that individuals with

higher environmental knowledge are more likely to support environmental policies and

engage in pro-environmental behaviors (Weinhold, 2018).

In addition to fairness and awareness, trust in the government is important in

attitudes toward environmental justice (Hwang et al., 2019). Studies have found that

when individuals trust the government to take action on environmental issues, they are

more likely to support environmental policies (García-Lamarca, 2017). Furthermore,

when individuals perceive the government as trustworthy, they are more likely to accept

trade-offs and sacrifices to protect the environment (García-Lamarca, 2017).

This literature review has shown that the attitudes of individuals and communities

towards environmental justice are influenced by perceptions of fairness, awareness of

 26

environmental issues, and trust in the government. Furthermore, individuals who

perceive environmental policies as fair and equitable, have a higher level of

environmental knowledge and trust the government to take action on environmental

issues are more likely to support environmental policies.

Political Ideology is the beliefs and values held by individuals that help shape

how they perceive and interact with the world around them (Lipset, 1996).

Environmental justice is an emerging field of study that explores the relationship

between political Ideology and the environment. This literature review will examine the

role of political ideology's role in environmental justice, including how different

ideologies shape public attitudes toward environmental issues, as well as the potential

implications for policymaking and public engagement.

Environmental justice is a concept that "seeks to ensure that environmental

burdens and benefits are shared equitably" (González-Sánchez & Schlosberg, 2020, p.

3). It is concerned with the unequal distribution of environmental harms, such as

pollution, and the unequal access to environmental benefits, such as clean air and

water. Environmental justice is a growing area of research, with scholars exploring the

role of different political ideologies in shaping public attitudes toward the environment

(González-Sánchez & Schlosberg, 2020).

Research has demonstrated that political Ideology can have a significant impact

on public attitudes toward the environment (González-Sánchez & Schlosberg, 2020).

For example, recent studies have found that individuals with left-leaning political

ideologies are more likely to be concerned with environmental issues and to express

support for policies that seek to protect the environment (González-Sánchez &
 27

Schlosberg, 2020; Lipset, 1996). Conversely, individuals with right-leaning political

ideologies are more likely to be skeptical of environmental issues and oppose

environmental protection measures (González-Sánchez & Schlosberg, 2020; Lipset,

1996).

Studies have also suggested that different ideological worldviews can shape the

way individuals view environmental issues (Lipset, 1996). For instance, left-leaning

ideologies are often associated with a holistic view of the environment, in which humans

are seen as interconnected with and dependent on the natural world (Lipset, 1996). In

contrast, right-leaning ideologies are more likely to embrace a utilitarian view of the

environment, in which humans are seen as separate from and in control of the natural

world (Lipset, 1996).

The research discussed above suggests that political Ideology can significantly

impact public attitudes and policy preferences concerning environmental issues; this

has important implications for policymakers, who must be aware of the potential impact

of political Ideology on public opinion when crafting environmental policies. For

example, it may be necessary to craft policies that appeal to both left- and right-leaning

individuals to ensure broad public support for environmental protection measures.

This literature review has examined the role of political Ideology in the context of

environmental justice. It has demonstrated that political Ideology can significantly impact

public attitudes and policy preferences regarding environmental issues. This has

important implications for policymakers, who must be aware of the potential impact of

political Ideology when crafting environmental policies. Further research is needed to

 28

explore the role of political Ideology in more detail and to understand the potential

implications for environmental justice.

Environmental justice is an issue that has become increasingly important in

political Ideology. It is an issue that has been widely discussed in recent years, with

various perspectives being presented. This literature review will explore the various

political ideologies concerning environmental justice to better understand these

ideologies' implications on this key issue.

Political ideologies are closely linked to environmental justice, as they are often

the basis for the decisions and policies implemented. Generally speaking,

environmental justice is defined as the fair treatment of people of all races, classes, and

cultures regarding the environment (Anderson, 2018). Environmental justice is closely

related to the concept of sustainability, which emphasizes the need for balance between

our environment and economic activity (Gardiner, 2017). Political ideologies are often

used to frame and interpret the issue of environmental justice, which can significantly

impact the outcome of policy decisions.

The dominant political ideologies in Western society often have divergent views

on environmental justice. Generally speaking, left-leaning ideologies, such as socialism

and communism, prioritize environmental justice and sustainability. In contrast, right-

leaning ideologies, such as conservatism and liberalism, often prioritize economic

growth over environmental concerns (Gardiner, 2017). This divergence in views can

lead to different approaches to environmental justice, as well as different outcomes.

 29

Liberal Ideology generally supports a market-based approach to environmental

justice, believing that market forces should determine the outcome of environmental

policy (Gardiner, 2017). This approach often leads to support for the privatization of

environmental regulation and the deregulation of environmental standards. This

approach to environmental justice is often seen as inadequate by those who prioritize it,

as it can lead to environmental degradation and inequality.

The conservative Ideology tends to emphasize individual rights over collective

responsibility, which can also lead to an inadequate approach to environmental justice

(Gardiner, 2017). This approach often leads to a focus on economic growth rather than

environmental protection, which can lead to the exploitation of resources and the

degradation of the environment. It is argued that this approach is inadequate for

achieving environmental justice, as it does not consider the needs of marginalized

populations.

The socialist and communist ideologies are often seen as the most effective for

achieving environmental justice, as they emphasize collective responsibility and

sustainability (Gardiner, 2017). This approach is often seen as the most effective for

achieving environmental justice, as it focuses on the needs of all people, regardless of

race, class, or culture. This approach is often seen as more effective for achieving

environmental justice, as it takes into account the needs of all people rather than just

those of the dominant classes.

The literature review has explored the various political ideologies in relation to

environmental justice. It has highlighted the divergent views of the dominant ideologies

and how they lead to different approaches to environmental justice. It has also
 30

highlighted the benefits of the socialist and communist ideologies for achieving

environmental justice, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility and

sustainability. It is clear that the political ideologies of a society have a significant impact

on the issue of environmental justice, and it is important to consider this when making

policy decisions.

Value-belief-norm theory provides a framework for understanding how attitudes

and behaviors toward environmental issues are shaped. According to this theory,

attitudes and behavior are shaped by values, beliefs, and norms. Values refer to the

ideas and principles that individuals hold about what is important and desirable in life.

Beliefs refer to individuals' knowledge and understanding of the environment and their

perception of how it functions. Norms refer to the expectations of what individuals

should do concerning the environment. When these values, beliefs, and norms are in

agreement, they can create a strong basis for environmental behavior and attitude

formation (Rojas-García, Fernández-Muñoz, & Rodríguez-González, 2020).

The moderating effect of political Ideology and socioeconomic Status on the

relationship between environmental awareness and attitudes toward environmental

justice has been explored in multiple studies. For example, a study by Bosch-

Domènech, Lleras-Muney, and Muro (2018) found that political ideology significantly

moderates the relationship between environmental awareness and attitudes toward

environmental justice. Specifically, individuals who identified as liberal were more likely

to have positive attitudes toward environmental justice than those who identified as

conservative. In addition, socioeconomic status was also found to be a significant

moderator of the relationship between environmental awareness and attitudes toward

 31

environmental justice. Specifically, those with higher socioeconomic status were more

likely to have positive attitudes toward environmental justice than those with lower

socioeconomic status (Bosch-Domènech, Lleras-Muney, & Muro, 2018).

Value-belief-norm theory provides a useful framework for understanding the

relationship between environmental awareness and attitudes toward environmental

justice. Studies have shown that political Ideology and socioeconomic Status can

moderate this relationship. Therefore, policymakers must consider the values, beliefs,

and norms of individuals from different political and socioeconomic backgrounds when

designing and implementing environmental policies.

Distributive justice is a theory that focuses on the equitable distribution of

resources and benefits among members of a society (Rawls, 1971). This theory

suggests that resources and benefits should be distributed in such a way that everyone

has access to the same opportunities and benefits, regardless of their socioeconomic

status or political Ideology. This theory can be applied to studying the moderating effect

of political Ideology and socioeconomic Status on the relationship between awareness

of environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice. In this study, the

researchers may explore how people from different socioeconomic backgrounds and

political ideologies view environmental justice and their awareness of environmental

issues.

The findings of this study may provide insight into how individuals from different

socioeconomic backgrounds and political ideologies perceive environmental justice and

how this perception is affected by their awareness of environmental issues, which could

provide valuable information to policymakers and other stakeholders, as it could help

 32

them identify which groups are at risk of being excluded from environmental justice

initiatives, as well as which groups are likely to benefit the most from them.

Furthermore, the results of this study could be used to inform policies and initiatives that

promote greater access to environmental justice for all members of society, regardless

of socioeconomic status or political Ideology.

Overall, the theory of distributive justice could be an important factor in the study

on the moderating effect of political Ideology and socioeconomic Status on the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice among residents. This theory suggests that resources and

benefits should be shared equitably among members of society, regardless of their

socioeconomic status or political Ideology. Thus, this study could provide valuable

insight into how different groups perceive environmental justice and how their

awareness of environmental issues affects this perception.

Ecological theory suggests that environmental issues should not be viewed in

isolation from other social and political issues (Weliver, 2014). According to this theory,

environmental justice should be considered part of a larger social and political context.

This theory posits that political Ideology and socioeconomic Status can moderate the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice among residents.

Political Ideology has been found to significantly influence attitudes concerning

environmental issues such as environmental justice (Kirwan, 2019). Those with a more

conservative political ideology are more likely to oppose environmental justice

initiatives, while those with a more liberal political ideology are more likely to support
 33

them (Kirwan, 2019). Furthermore, socioeconomic status can also affect attitudes

toward environmental justice (Kirwan, 2019). Those with higher socioeconomic status

are more likely to be more aware of environmental issues and more supportive of

environmental justice initiatives (Kirwan, 2019).

In conclusion, ecological theory suggests that political Ideology and

socioeconomic Status can moderate the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice among residents. This

suggests that environmental justice initiatives should be viewed within a larger social

and political context to be successful.

The conceptual framework for this study examines the moderating effect of

Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of

Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice among residents.

Previous research has shown that individuals' political ideologies and socioeconomic

statuses can influence their views on environmental justice (Dietz et al., 2008; Burch et

al., 2011; Satterfield et al., 2018). Thus, it is hypothesized that there is no significant

relationship between Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes toward

Environmental Justice but that Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status moderate

the relationship between them.

Specifically, individuals with conservative political ideologies and lower

socioeconomic statuses are expected to have a weaker relationship between

Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice than

those with more liberal political ideologies and higher socioeconomic statuses. This is

based on the idea that individuals with conservative political ideologies tend to have
 34

less concern for environmental issues (Satterfield et al., 2018), and individuals with

lower socioeconomic statuses may be more likely to prioritize economic development

over environmental protection (Quinlan et al., 2015).

The research can be further strengthened by including a larger and more

representative sample size and by conducting a more in-depth analysis of the

moderating effects of Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status.

One study by D'Alisa and Demaria (2015) found that political Ideology did not

have a statistically significant effect on the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice. The authors surveyed

1,250 citizens from 15 countries, asking them to rate their awareness of environmental

issues and their attitudes toward environmental justice and measure their political

Ideology. They found that although there were statistically significant differences

between political ideologies regarding environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice, there was no significant difference in the relationship between

awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

However, other studies have found that political Ideology can affect attitudes

toward environmental justice. For example, a study by Gullino and Bell (2014) surveyed

1,800 citizens in the United States, asking them to rate their awareness of

environmental issues and their attitudes toward environmental justice and measure their

political Ideology. They found that political Ideology did have a moderating effect on the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes towards

environmental justice, with liberal citizens being more likely to have positive attitudes

towards environmental justice than conservative citizens.

 35

The evidence suggests that political Ideology does not have a statistically

significant effect on the relationship between awareness of environmental issues and

attitudes toward environmental justice. However, it is important to note that the results of

a single study do not necessarily represent the overall trend. Thus, further research is

needed to determine whether political ideology moderates the relationship between

awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

Existing research does not support the hypothesis that there is no significant

relationship between socioeconomic status and its moderating effect on the relationship

between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

On the contrary, numerous studies have demonstrated that socioeconomic status can

mediate the relationship between environmental awareness and environmental justice

attitudes (Dalton & Weiss, 2007; Samis et al., 2002; Schouten et al., 2017).

For instance, Dalton and Weiss (2007) studied the relationship between

socioeconomic status and environmental attitudes in the United States using data from

the General Social Survey. Their results showed that while there was no significant

relationship between socioeconomic status and environmental attitudes overall,

socioeconomic status had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between

environmental awareness and environmental justice attitudes. The authors found that

higher socioeconomic status was associated with more positive attitudes toward

environmental justice.

Similar findings have been reported in other studies. Schouten et al. (2017)

surveyed Dutch citizens to examine the influence of socioeconomic status on their

attitudes toward environmental justice. They found that higher socioeconomic status
 36

was associated with more positive attitudes toward environmental justice. Samis et al.

(2002) also reported that higher socioeconomic status was associated with greater

awareness of environmental issues and more positive attitudes toward environmental

justice.

The available evidence does not support the hypothesis that there is no

significant relationship between socioeconomic status and its moderating effect on the

relationship between awareness of environmental issues and attitudes toward

environmental justice. On the contrary, numerous studies have demonstrated the

moderating effect of socioeconomic status on the relationship between environmental

awareness and environmental justice attitudes.

This chapter will provide a detailed overview of the research design, including the

research approach, method of data collection, and data analysis techniques.

Furthermore, this chapter will explain the criteria used to select the research sample,

the data collection process, and the procedures used to ensure the quality of the data.

Finally, this chapter will discuss the ethical considerations that were taken into account

in the design and implementation of the research.

 37

The approach that will be used in the study is the quantitative approach.

According to Dolmark et al. (2021), the quantitative approach provides empirically

accurate evidence; qualitative research also attempts to produce truthful results using

objective scientific methods. On the other hand, the study will be using a descriptive

correlational study design was chosen by the researchers to gain reliable information

about the Value-Belief-Norm Theory among the population in Angeles City; this research

design is deemed fit for this study as the study is aimed to gain more understanding of

how Value-Belief-Norm Theory can make a difference about the Political Ideology,

Socioeconomic Status, awareness of environmental issues, and attitudes towards the

environmental justice of the population. The researchers will use different platforms

such as Facebook and Gmail to collect data; in order to collect information about the

study, the researchers chose interviews and focus group as the method of data

collection, the researchers selected interviews and focus group, which questioned

individuals about the topic and a group interview where the interaction between the

participants is encouraged.

The population of this study consists of participating residents aged 18-65 years

old residing in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines. The sample was also stratified by

political Ideology (conservative, moderate, and liberal) and socioeconomic status (lower,

middle, and upper class) (O'Brien et al., 2019). The population of Angeles City is 567

738 based on the 2020 PSA census using the Raosoft sample size calculator with a

confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%; the computed sample size is 384.

The locale of the study of the moderating effects of political Ideology and

socioeconomic Status towards the relationship regarding the awareness of

 38

environmental issues and attitude towards environmental justice is Angeles City,

Philippines is a 3rd-class, highly urbanized city located in the province of Pampanga

(Gacias, S. P., 2020). It is known as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines" and is

home to a large number of factories and commercial establishments. The population of

Angeles City is estimated to be around 411,634 people in 2020, with a literacy rate of

97.3% (Gacias, S. P., 2020). The city is economically developed, with most of its

citizens employed in the manufacturing and service industries. The city also has a high

level of environmental awareness and a strong commitment to environmental justice,

with a variety of local organizations and programs focused on environmental protection

and sustainability.

The collection of data will be through the use of a survey questionnaire that will

question the respondent to answer the objective of the study. The survey questionnaire

is composed of four parts. The first part gathers the socio-demographic status regarding

gender, civil status, education, and income. The research instrument to explore the

moderating effect of Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship

between Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental

Justice among residents would include questions about gender, civil status, education,

and income. Gender questions could include asking about the respondent's biological

sex and gender identity. Civil status questions could ask about the respondent's marital

status. Education questions could ask about the highest level of education completed by

the respondent. Income questions could ask about the amount of money the respondent
 39

earns yearly or the amount the respondent has available to them in a given month

(Kotchen, 2018).

The research instrument on political Ideology used in this study was the Political

Ideology Scale, developed by Cantril (1965). This scale is a self-reported measure of

political Ideology, which assesses liberal views and conservative views on a spectrum

from strongly liberal to strongly conservative. The scale consists of 10 items, including

social, economic, and political questions. Participants are asked to indicate their level of

agreement with each statement on a five-point Likert-type scale (Cantril, 1965). This

research explores the moderating effect of Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status

on the relationship between Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward

Environmental Justice among residents.

The research instrument used to explore the moderating effect of Political

Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of

Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice among residents is a

survey. The survey consists of a variety of questions related to the research objectives.

These questions focus on the participants' political Ideology, socioeconomic status,

awareness of environmental issues, and attitudes toward environmental justice. The

survey questions measure the participant's awareness of environmental issues,

attitudes towards environmental justice, political Ideology, and Socioeconomic Status.

Additionally, the survey includes open-ended questions to provide further insight into the

participants' attitudes and beliefs. The survey is administered online or via a paper

questionnaire designed to systematically measure the participants' attitudes and beliefs

(Rutgers, 2019).
 40

The research instrument used to explore the moderating effect of Political

Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of

Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice among residents was

a survey. The survey consisted of a variety of questions, including questions about

demographic information, political Ideology, socioeconomic Status, awareness of

environmental issues, and attitudes toward environmental justice (Baek et al., 2017).

The survey questions were designed to assess the participants' views on environmental

justice and their attitudes toward the subject. The survey was administered via an online

survey platform, and participants were asked to respond to the questions in a multiple-

choice format. The survey data was then analyzed to examine the moderating effect of

Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship between Awareness of

Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental Justice.

Data gathering procedures for a survey and regression analysis on the Attitudes

toward Environmental Justice should include quantitative and qualitative methods

(Brannen, 2017). In terms of quantitative methods, the research should utilize a survey

instrument to collect data on participants' awareness of environmental issues, attitudes

toward environmental justice, political Ideology, and socioeconomic Status. The survey

should include items that measure the participants' attitudes toward environmental

justice (e.g., how much they agree or disagree with statements related to environmental

justice) as well as items that measure their political Ideology and socioeconomic Status

(e.g., questions about their income, education level, etc.). It is also important to include

demographic items such as gender, age, race/ethnicity, and items related to the

research context (e.g., location, length of residency, etc.). Once the survey data is
 41

collected, regression analysis can be utilized to explore the moderating effects of

political Ideology and socioeconomic Status on the relationship between awareness of

environmental issues and attitudes toward environmental justice.

In terms of qualitative methods, the research should include interviews and focus

groups to better understand participants' attitudes toward environmental justice and

their experiences with environmental issues in their local community (Brannen, 2017).

Interviews and focus groups can provide researchers with valuable insights into the

social context of the research, which can be useful for interpreting the survey results

and understanding why certain relationships exist between the variables.

Overall, data gathering for a survey and regression analysis on the Attitudes

toward Environmental Justice should include quantitative and qualitative methods to

gain a comprehensive understanding of the research topic.

Data treatment for a survey and regression analysis on the Attitudes toward

Environmental Justice should be conducted with sensitivity and accuracy. To explore the

moderating effect of Political Ideology and Socioeconomic Status on the relationship

between Awareness of Environmental Issues and Attitudes Toward Environmental

Justice, researchers should conduct an analysis that considers the context of the data.

This means that the data should be collected from a representative sample of the

population, including people of different political and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Additionally, researchers should use a validated survey instrument that considers the

complexity of environmental justice attitudes and awareness (Fishman et al., 2017).

 42

When conducting the regression analysis, researchers should first examine

descriptive statistics to assess the reliability of the data, and this includes checking for

outliers, missing values, and other potential issues. Researchers should then conduct

an exploratory analysis, such as a correlation matrix, to assess the relationships

between the variables. Finally, researchers should use the appropriate regression

analysis model and interpret the results carefully (Von Hippel, 2017).

Data treatment for a survey and regression analysis on the Attitudes toward

Environmental Justice should be conducted in a way that considers the data's context

and the topic's complexity. The analysis should be conducted with accuracy and

sensitivity, and the results should be interpreted cautiously.

Ethical considerations are especially important when researching Attitudes

toward Environmental Justice since the research involves exploring the views of

individuals on socioeconomic and political issues, which can be sensitive and

controversial topics. As such, all participants in the research must be treated with

respect and dignity, and their rights must be respected (Kumar, 2014).

In particular, it is important to ensure that participants are aware of the research's

purpose and understand how their data will be used (Friedman, 2017). In addition, it is

important to ensure that participants are not pressured or coerced into providing data

they are uncomfortable with. Furthermore, participants should be allowed to withdraw

from the research at any time, and their data should be kept confidential and securely

stored (Friedman, 2017).

 43

Finally, researchers should be aware of the potential for bias, for example, when

selecting participants and questions for the survey. It is important to ensure that the

research is conducted equitably and that everyone involved is treated fairly and justly

(Kumar, 2014).