The perception of water related risks and the state of the water environment in the European Union

In this work, we examine the factors predicting the perception of three distinct risks, namely “Algae growth”, “Chemical pollution” and “Changes to ecosystems”, to the water environment of each European Union Member State. We utilize a novel dataset that combines a Europe-wide Eurobarometer poll on water-related issues and a database of water quality indicators, water stressors and impacts compiled for the European Environment Agency (EEA) under the Water Information System for Europe (WISE). We utilize a three-level logistic regression model with the 2nd and 3rd levels being the region and the country in which the respondent lives. We find that perceived risks generally reflect the actual state of the environment at both the regional and national level, with the national level being stronger. Perceived risks are also related to socio-demographics, information and knowledge, pro-environmental activity and consumer practices. The influence of unobserved factors, captured in the model by random effects, was large at the national level, reflecting differences in cultural and institutional structures”. Results support higher levels of water policy devolution and more focused and targeted policy communication.