Relation between Noise Pollution and Life Satisfaction Based on the 2019 Chinese Social Survey

Abstract

Noise pollution is a leading cause of decreasing well-being of residents in both developed and developing countries. Improving residents’ well-being measured by life satisfaction is a key goal of government policy. Individuals with high life satisfaction usually have positive emotions, life orientation, and codes of conduct, which are positive and beneficial for individuals, families, and society as a whole. In order to supplement relevant research and provide policy suggestions for individuals, government, and societies, this study explores the relationship between noise pollution and the life satisfaction of Chinese residents. Based on data from 4869 observations from the Chinese Social Survey in 2019, the effect of noise pollution on life satisfaction is estimated by using ordinary least squares and propensity score matching methods. The results show that noise pollution has a significant negative effect on Chinese life satisfaction. Moreover, the effect is heterogeneous depending on individuals’ education levels and ages. Finally, residents’ living environment satisfaction is shown to be the potential mechanism by which noise pollution affects life satisfaction.