The environmental problem in the country is "very serious" or "relatively serious", according to more than three-fourths of the 10,000 people surveyed in 31 provinces and municipalities.

Results of the study, conducted by the China Environment Culture Promotion Association (CECPA), were announced on Friday. The survey, carried out every year since 2005, focuses on public awareness vis--vis the environment.

About 76 percent of the respondents said the environmental problem was "very serious" or "relatively serious" last year, and listed pollution as the most serious problem after rising prices and food security.