Youth Perspectives on Urban Air Pollution: Awareness, Concern, and Social Action in Ho Chi Minh City

¹ NTT Institute of International Education, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
² Faculty of Business Administration, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
³ Research and Development Institutes Advanced Agrobilogy, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam.
⁴ Institute for Environment and Resources, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCMC), Ho Chi Minh City, 70000, Vietnam.

^* Corresponding author: tthanh@ntt.edu.vn

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between air pollution levels and the degree of concern demonstrated by students regarding this environmental challenge. The primary aim is to evaluate the extent of air pollution and promote heightened community awareness about its societal impacts. Employing a mixed-methods design, the study involved surveys and perception assessments conducted with a sample of 200 students. The results from air quality monitoring highlighted significant fluctuations in particulate matter concentrations (PM11.0, PM2.5, and PM10) across various locations in Ho Chi Minh City, with Facility A recording a peak of 95 µg/m³ and Facility D reaching a maximum of 114 µg/m³, underscoring the urgent need for improved pollution management. Additionally, marked increases in formaldehyde (HCHO) and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) were observed, with Location C peaking at 0.197 mg/m³ for HCHO and 0.907 mg/m³ for TVOC, while Location D showed a TVOC concentration of 0.813 mg/m³. These results highlight the critical importance of ongoing air quality surveillance and the implementation of targeted emission control measures, particularly in high-risk areas such as schools, to safeguard vulnerable groups and promote overall public health.