Exploring the Mediating Role of Green Spaces in Mitigating the Negative Effects of Air Pollution on Residents' Happiness

<p dir="ltr"><i>This study investigates the mediating role of green spaces in mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution on residents’ happiness in Delhi, a rapidly urbanizing and industrializing megacity facing severe environmental challenges. Employing a structured questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale, data were collected from 160 residents across neighborhoods with varying levels of air pollution and green space availability. The survey measured perceptions of air quality, access to and use of green spaces, subjective happiness, and demographic factors. Reliability analysis confirmed strong internal consistency across the survey constructs. Using structural equation modeling, the study found that green space access and utilization significantly mediate the relationship between perceived air pollution and subjective happiness. Specifically, while perceived air pollution negatively influences happiness, this effect is largely offset when residents have greater access to and make frequent use of green spaces. The findings highlight the crucial role of urban green spaces in supporting well-being and life satisfaction, even in environments with high pollution levels. These results provide valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers, emphasizing the need to prioritize the development and maintenance of accessible, high-quality green spaces as a strategy to enhance the quality of life in polluted urban settings like New Delhi.</i></p>