An astonishing 99 percent of Beijing residents say they have been participating in the Olympics in one way or another, according to a survey by the Beijing Social Facts and Public Opinion Survey Center.

More than 3,400 questionnaires were completed during the Beijing survey. 16 percent of the respondents said they were participating as Olympic volunteers, more than half have been collecting Olympic souvenirs, over 60 percent watched the Beijing leg of the torch relay, and over 70 percent have cut car use to support the green Olympics policy. Nearly 95 percent said they had tried to "improve themselves to project a good image of Beijing."

Less than 1 percent said they were not participating in the Olympics "in any way".

The survey organizers were expecting results to indicate a high level of participation but the numbers were well beyond their expectations.

The survey suggests public behavior may be improving. More than 80 percent of respondents said they see fewer people dropping litter or queue jumping.

Nearly 90 percent said that people seem more considerate than before. People are offering bus seats to their elders and helping others with directions. Also, people are paying more attention to keeping fit.

With regard to their impressions of the Olympic Opening Ceremony, respondents spoke highly of the "Four Great Inventions" and "Tai Chi" tableaux, saying they showcased national culture and promoted national feeling.

(China.org.cn by Wang Wei, August 15, 2008)