Effects of emotional amplification on public perceptions of waste-to-energy incineration facilities: evidence from a behavioral survey experiment

Abstract

This study explores the profound impact of emotional amplification on public attitudes towards waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration facilities through the lens of emotional contagion theory. A cohort of 240 participants initially underwent baseline assessments of their perceptions of WTE facilities. They were then exposed to stimuli designed to evoke positive or negative emotional responses, followed by reassessment to identify shifts in their perceptions and acceptance levels. Utilizing paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA, the analysis revealed that emotional amplification markedly influences public attitudes, with participants showing increased support or opposition depending on the emotional valence of the stimuli. These findings underscore the crucial role of emotions in shaping public opinion on WTE incineration facilities, offering essential insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and community leaders. The integration of emotional contagion theory with empirical research provides a novel perspective on the interplay between emotions and public perceptions in environmental discourse, advancing our understanding of the factors driving public opinion and aiding stakeholders in managing opposition incidents effectively.