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The Digital Commons: Social Perceptions and Behavioural Shifts through Real-Time Environmental Monitoring in the city of Delhi NCR.
* 1 , * 2
1  Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India.
2  National Museum of Natural History, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
Academic Editor: Daniel McCarthy

Abstract:

In the context of the current unprecedented ecological challenges that urban centers are encountering, digital technologies have become a primary tool in environmental governance. My research investigates the social implications of real-time monitoring of air quality and environmental degradation among people in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR). Although technical measures of degradation can be obtained through biophysical data, the social aspect of community perception, trust and action regarding the same data is poorly studied. This study uses a mixed-method design with digital surveys and social sentiment analysis to investigate the hypothesis of whether more access to environmental technology leads to people having eco-anxiety or engaging in digital activism. Preliminary results indicate a strong correlation between mobile-based information transparency and community-based conservation efforts, although a digital divide persists in disempowered socio-economic regions. This paper argues that technology is not the solution to environmental crises; rather, it must be integrated into a more comprehensive social system with a strong focus on environmental justice and digital literacy. The findings related to the Society and Technology track of the conference are significant because they indicate the intersection of digital surveillance, public health, and social equity in a rapidly developing urban environment. Ultimately, my research indicates that a scalable framework exists for inclusive, tech-driven environmental advocacy across various global metropolitan contexts.

Keywords: Digital Sociology; Environmental Justice; Delhi-NCR; Eco-anxiety; Digital Activism; Tech-driven
Comments on this paper
Arjun Sharma
This research is very effective for future social impact on environmental crises
Charu Verma
Yeah Absolutely,
Thanks

Vibhat Gautam
This is a highly relevant and timely study, especially for those of us tracking environmental governance in the Global South. The abstract perfectly outlines the gap in understanding human perception of environmental data. Your quadrant mapping of socio-economic disparity on the poster makes the 'Digital Divide' argument immediately clear. Regarding your future directions, how do you see local municipal bodies in Delhi potentially integrating the SMS-based localised dashboards you suggested?
Charu Verma
Thank you so much for the thoughtful feedback and the great question! I believe the most practical first step for Delhi's municipal bodies (such as the MCD or DPCC) would be to integrate SMS alerts into existing public welfare and weather-alert databases. By utilizing pin-code targeting, local governments can send automated, daily text messages in regional languages directly to basic feature phones. Instead of just sharing a complex AQI number, these texts could offer simple, actionable health advice for daily wage workers on 'Severe' days. Ultimately, the goal is to bypass the need for high-speed data and smartphones, ensuring that environmental health warnings become a universally accessible public right rather than a digital luxury.

Jayashree Acharya
A very insightful and timely study - your work highlights the useful link between technology, social equity, and environmental justice in a clear and impactful way.
Charu Verma
Thank you so much! Highlighting the critical link between digital tools and environmental justice was the main goal of this research, so I truly appreciate your feedback.

Rahul Verma
Congratulations on a stellar presentation. It is rare to see research that so effectively combines environmental science with social equity. Your conclusion that technology acts as a gatekeeper without proper digital literacy and environmental justice is a powerful takeaway. The poster design makes complex sociological data very easy to digest. Great job!
Charu Verma
Thank you for the kind words! I'm glad the interdisciplinary approach and the poster's visual design resonated with you.

Mannya Tomar
The paper highlights the need to combine technological solutions with environmental justice, public trust, and digital literacy to create more inclusive and effective environmental governance. Very impactful and informative.
Charu Verma
Thank you!
You perfectly captured the core message of the research. I'm glad the focus on inclusive environmental governance resonated with you.



 
 
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