Contingent Valuation Research Articles

Determinants of rural households’ willingness to pay for improved potable water supply in Central Rift Valley Ethiopia: contingent valuation method approach

Determinants of rural households’ willingness to pay for improved potable water supply in Central Rift Valley Ethiopia: contingent valuation method approach

Estimating willingness to pay for motorcycle helmet and its determinants through contingent valuation method.

Helmet use has been introduced as one of the most highlighted strategies for preventing death and injury in motorcyclists. On the other hand, the cost of the helmet was introduced as a barrier to use. This study aimed at estimating the willingness to pay (WTP) of motorcyclists in Saqqez to buy and use safety helmets through the contingent valuation method (CVM). This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 in Saqqez County, Kurdistan Province, Iran. Sampling was performed by two-stage clustering through probability proportion to the size. The sample size was 570. A preliminary questionnaire was designed and administered for validity and reliability approval. Data analysis was carried out through linear regression models using STATA 15. In total, 510 questionnaires were analyzed. The motorcyclists' mean age was 31.37 years (SD = 8.48). Only 251 individuals (49.22%) had an appropriate license, and approximately 40% declared that they never used a safety helmet. The mean WTP was estimated to be 3900000 Rials (15/6 US$) through CVM. Motorcyclist age, helmet use by the motorcyclist friends, and socio-economic status were found to be significantly correlated with their WTP. The effect of socio-economic status on motorcyclist WTP highlights the significance of adopting supportive policies in this regard, along with stakeholder participation from the private sector and insurance companies. Moreover, the positive effect of helmet use by friends on individuals' WTP shows that improving the general culture of traffic safety can be accompanied by promising results, especially for motorcyclists.

Time value of informal care of people with alzheimer's disease in Spain: a population-based analysis.

The aims of this paper are to estimate the monetary value of informal care for people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Spain, to compare results with those obtained in 2008 and to analyse the main determinants of the time of the value of informal care. The Survey on Disabilities, Autonomy and Dependency carried out in Spain in 2020/21 was used to obtain information about disabled individuals with AD and their informal caregivers. Assessment of informal care time was carried out using two alternative approaches: the replacement method, and the contingent valuation method (willingness to pay & willingness to accept). The number of people with AD residing in Spanish households and receiving informal care rose to more than 200,000, representing an increase of 43% compared with 2008. The average number of hours of informal care per week ranged from 86 to 101h, with an estimated value of between €31,584 - €37,019 per year per caregiver (willingness to accept) or €71,653 - €83,984 per year (replacement). The annual total number of caregiving hours ranged between 896 and 1,061million hours, representing between 0.52 and 0.62 of GDP in 2021 (willingness to accept) or 1.19-1.40 of GDP (replacement). The level of care needs plays a central role in explaining heterogeneity in estimates. These results should be taken into account by decision-makers for long-term care planning in the coming years.

Willingness to Pay for Blueberries: Sensory Attributes, Fruit Quality Traits, and Consumers’ Characteristics

Understanding consumers’ preferences for fruit quality attributes is key to informing breeding efforts, meeting consumer preferences, and promoting increased market demand. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of fruit quality traits and hedonic sensory evaluation on consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for a selection of fresh northern and southern highbush blueberry cultivars. The WTP was elicited by using a double-bounded contingent valuation conducted in conjunction with a consumer sensory test. Two types of models were estimated using either sensory evaluations (i.e., consumer preference and consumer intensity) or instrumental measurement data (i.e., measures of soluble solids, titratable acidity, sugars, acids, and firmness) as explanatory variables to model WTP. Results using sensory evaluations indicated that flavor liking, flavor intensity, and sweetness intensity are key factors that influence consumers’ acceptance and WTP for blueberries. A regression analysis using instrumental measurements indicated that measures related to sweetness and acidity traits are important factors that determine WTP. Higher WTP was associated with higher total sugar content across different levels of total organic acid. The WTP increases with organic acid content, because this is needed for enhanced flavor; however, WTP declines at high concentrations of organic acid. Except for extreme values of firmness, the WTP increased as measures of fruit firmness increased, indicating a consumer preference for firmer blueberries. Overall, the results provided new insights into the relationships between consumer preference and WTP and fruit quality benchmarks to select for improved quality.

Valuation of Ratargul swamp forest conservation: Does climate knowledge matter?

The degradation of swamp forest ecosystem services due to the adverse effects of climate change has already been observed. Ratargul Swamp Forest (RSF), the only swamp forest in Bangladesh, provides livelihood and ecotourism opportunities for millions. It forms a crucial nexus between the community's economic well-being and the preservation of a unique, ecologically significant natural habitat. However, this ecosystem has experienced severe degradation due to various climatic and anthropogenic factors. Conservation of this unique ecosystem is expected to play a crucial role in addressing climate change and achieving the country's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to estimate household Willingness to Pay (WTP) and total economic value for this ecosystem using the contingent valuation under a climate change scenario. The mean WTP is estimated to be 7,360.00 BDT, while the total annual benefit of the RSF conservation program is estimated to be 31,798,129.50 BDT per year using a parametric approach. Our result shows that individuals with higher incomes whose primary livelihood depends on this ecosystem, receive benefits from this ecosystem, and have a good understanding of climate change are likely to pay more for the RSF conservation program. Therefore, implementing a communication policy to increase knowledge about climate change would significantly contribute to conserving this unique ecosystem and thus achieve the country's SDGs and the United Nations REED+ program in developing countries.

Italian winegrowers' acceptance of result-based agri-environmental schemes

Abstract As the debate around the cost-effectiveness of agri-environmental schemes (AES) is growing at the European level, researchers and policymakers are exploring the potential of result-based AES. Result-based AES initiate payments only if pre-defined environmental outcomes are achieved, thus increasing risks for farmers. Using a contingent valuation method, we investigated Italian winegrowers’ acceptance and intensity of participation in a result-based AES targeted at pollinators’ conservation in vineyards. We focused on the role of farmers’ behavioural factors and risk attitudes in driving the acceptance. Results show that, among the 222 farmers who completed the survey, 71 per cent of participants are willing to participate in such a scheme. Non-participation is associated with a high perceived bureaucratic burden. Risk also plays a significant role, as the perceived risk of the scheme decreases the likelihood of enrolment, while risk-seeking farmers are more likely to participate. We found no evidence of risk affecting the intensity of participation. In contrast, while a treatment of a randomly assigned rare-species bonus did not affect the scheme's overall acceptance, it positively influenced intensity. Behavioural factors appear to be related to both acceptance and intensity. Considering this, we suggest strategies to encourage farmer participation in result-based AES.

Economic Valuation of Kelapa Island Tourism Area Bima Regency 2024

This study aims to analyze the economic value of Kelapa Island tourism area using the Travel Cost Method and Contingent Valuation Method approaches and identify factors that influence the frequency of tourist visits in the Kelapa Island tourism area, Lambu, Bima Regency. The type of research used is quantitative by determining 90 respondents who traveled to Kelapa Island. This research was conducted in the Kelapa Island tourist area, Lambu District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The sampling method used was purposive sampling. The data used in this study are primary data collected through interviews, observations, and documentation with data collection tools in the form of questionnaires. The analytical tool used is SPSS 16 with data analysis using multiple linear regression. The findings revealed that the economic value of the Kelapa Island area using the Travel Cost Method approach amounted to IDR 212,911,666, while the economic value of conservation and development of the Kelapa Island area using the Contingent Valuation Method approach amounted to IDR 10,894,000. Factors that influence the frequency of visits are travel costs, age, income, and facilities.

Willingness to Pay for Agricultural Soil Quality Protection and Improvement

Understanding and estimating the economic value that society places on agricultural soil quality protection and improvement can guide the development of policies aimed at mitigating pollution, promoting conservation, or incentivizing sustainable land management practices. We estimate the general public’s willingness to pay (WTP) for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement in Spain (n = 1000) and the UK (n = 984) using data from a cross-sectional survey via Qualtrics panels in March–April 2021. We use a double-bound dichotomous choice contingent valuation approach to elicit the individuals’ WTP. We investigate the effect of uncertainty on the success of policies aiming at achieving soil protection. In addition, to understand the heterogeneity in individuals’ WTP for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement, we model individuals’ WTP through individuals’ awareness and attitudes toward agricultural soil quality protection and the environment; trust in institutions; risk and time preferences; pro-social behavior; and socio-demographics in Spain and the UK. We found that there is significant public support for agricultural soil quality protection and improvement in Spain and the UK. We also found that the support does not vary significantly under uncertainty of success of policies aiming at achieving soil protection. However, the individual’s reasons for supporting agricultural soil quality protection and improvement are found to depend on the level of uncertainty and country. Hence, promoting public support for soil protection needs to be tailored according to the level of the general public’s perceived uncertainty and geographic location.

Value of direct seeding mulch-based cropping system to field crop farmers in Quebec

Direct seeding mulch-based cropping system (DMC) is often touted for providing diverse ecosystem services, but its implementation may impose private costs that often limit its adoption by farmers. This study uses a contingent valuation method and a double hurdle model to estimate Quebec farmers' willingness to accept (WTA) compensation for adopting DMC and to analyze the underlying factors associated with WTA. Results show that farmers would demand, on average, 161 Canadian dollars per hectare as compensation for adopting DMC. Our results also indicate that farmers are willing to convert only 25.5 % of their farm size to DMC. While the adoption of DMC is positively influenced by the ease of implementation and farmers’ perception of DMC yield, the WTA for adopting DMC increases with the perceived risk and yield, as well as farm size. Conversely, it decreases with the age of farmers and if the farmers know a DMC producer. The findings of the study suggest that compensating farmers for adopting DMC is encouraging, but compensation alone may not be sufficient to induce the conversion of entire farms to DMC. The study, therefore, calls for further research to investigate why farmers are willing to convert only a quarter of their farms to DMC.

Economic valuation of open research data: A conceptual framework and methodological approach

Abstract The economic significance of open research data is widely acknowledged, yet its quantification remains challenging. This paper presents an effective valuation instrument to help stakeholders understand and evaluate the economic benefits of open research data. By conducting a scoping review and prioritizing user engagement, this study introduces a comprehensive conceptual framework for the economic valuation of open research data. The valuation is based on economic value and willingness to pay, employing the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). It incorporates per-use models (view, download, and request) and periodic subscription models (monthly and yearly). An empirical survey was conducted at the National Basic Science Data Center (NBSDC) in China to verify this framework. Both pricing models, comprising five distinct tactics, was supported by surveyed users. Measuring economic value by views and by year was preferred, while willingness to pay by downloads and by year was considered more reasonable. Overall, the most applicable valuation approach is on a yearly basis. Through this case study at NBSDC, specific pricing tactics were identified, and the total economic value and users’ willingness to pay were assessed. This study is arguably the first to establish a conceptual framework with pricing tactics from a user perspective. This methodological approach for economic valuation of open research data provides evidence and tools for future research, policy formulation, and resource allocation in the context of open science and innovation.

Willingness to Pay For Solid Waste Management in Residential Condominiums: A Case Study With A Focus on the Financial Sustainability of the Municipal Budget of Vitória-ES

Objective: Evaluate the willingness to pay (WTP) for Domestic Solid Waste management services in residential buildings in Vitória-ES, as well as to estimate their financial impact within the Solid Waste Management (SWM). Theoretical Framework: The demand for the universalization of SWM services compromises the municipal budget, and it is essential to evaluate new charging strategies to guarantee economic and financial sustainability. Method: Through the application of a questionnaire, the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) was used, as well as a case study in the city of Vitória/ES. Results and Discussion: 58% of residents were willing to pay for SWM services, with an average monthly value of US$5.95 per household unit and stated that promoting information about the service would promote an 48% increase in this value. If classified as large generators, the transfer of responsibility for waste management in condominiums with more than 46 apartments, could relieve almost 19% of the entire cost of SWM services in the city of Vitória. Research Implications: It is evident the need to improve SWM charging policies for large generators, such as residential buildings, which can consider political and regulatory aspects, the WTP of the target audience, as well as information dissemination and social mobilization. Originality/Value: The research results contribute to expanding the modalities of charging policies for SWM services, with the classification of residential condominiums as large generators.

Determinants of parental demand of human papillomavirus vaccination for adolescent daughters in China: Contingent valuation survey.

Several types of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines have been approved for use in adolescent girls in China. These vaccines are regulated as non-National Immunisation Program vaccines and are optional and generally fully self-paid by vaccinees. To assess parents' demand for HPV vaccination by eliciting their willingness-to-pay for their adolescent daughters to be vaccinated against HPV and to examine the determinants of demand for HPV vaccination in China. A contingent valuation survey was conducted across three cities in Shandong Province in eastern China. We selected 11 junior middle schools with different socioeconomic features and randomly selected 6 classes in each school, and questionnaires were distributed to all girls aged 12-16 in the 66 classes for their parents to complete. A payment card approach was used to elicit parental willingness-to-pay for HPV vaccination for their daughters. We also collected a wide array of socioeconomic and psychological variables and interval regressions were applied to examine the determinants of parental willingness-to-pay. A total of 1074 eligible parents who completed valid questions were included in analyses. Over 85% of parents believed HPV vaccines were, in general, necessary and beneficiary. However, only around 10% believed that their daughters would be infected by HPV. About 8% of parents would not accept HPV vaccine even if the vaccine were free mainly due to concerns about the potential side effects and vaccine safety and quality issues, and 27.37% would only accept the vaccine if it were free. The median willingness-to-pay was 300 CNY (42 USD). Several factors were positively correlated with higher willingness-to-pay: income, urban residence (relative to rural residence), mothers (relative to fathers), parents' beliefs about vaccine benefits, whether they should make decisions for their daughters, and whether their daughters would be susceptible to HPV. Though education-level was not significantly correlated with willingness-to-pay in the main regressions, a subgroup analysis revealed interesting dynamics in the relation between education and willingness-to-pay across different income-levels. There is a large gap between parents' willingness-to-pay and the market price of HPV vaccine for girls in China. Parents generally believed the HPV vaccines were beneficial and necessary but when asked for their daughters, most parents did not believe their daughters would be infected by HPV despite the high prevalence in China. Future focus should be on ensuring the provision of accurate health information about HPV prevalence, vaccine quality, and safety to promote vaccine uptake, and promotional efforts tailored to different income groups might yield better effects. Government involvement in negotiating more widely acceptable and affordable prices or subsidising may be necessary for protecting high-risk population groups.

Assessing farmers’ willingness to pay for FMD vaccines and factors influencing payment: a contingent valuation study in central Oromia, Ethiopia

BackgroundFoot and mouth disease is a contagious, transboundary, and economically devastating viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals. The disease can cause many consequences, including decreased productivity, limited market access, and elimination of flocks or herds. This study aimed to assess farmers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccines and identify factors influencing their WTP. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted on 396 randomly selected livestock-owning farmers from three districts in the central Oromia region (Ambo, Dendi, and Holeta districts. The study utilized the contingent valuation method, specifically employing dichotomous choice bids with double bounds, to evaluate the willingness to pay (WTP) for the FMD vaccine. Mean WTP was assessed using interval regression, and influential factors were identified.ResultsThe study revealed that the farmer’s mean willingness to pay for a hypothetical foot and mouth disease vaccine was 37.5 Ethiopian Birr (ETB) [95% confidence interval [CI]: 34.5 40.58] in all data, while it was 23.84 (95% CI: 21.47–26.28) in the mixed farming system and 64.87 Ethiopian Birr (95% CI: 58.68 71.15) in the market-oriented farming system. We identified main livelihood, management system, sales income, breed, keeping animals for profit, and foot and mouth disease impact perception score as significant variables (p ≤ 0.05) determining the farmers’ WTP for the FMD vaccine.ConclusionFarmers demonstrated a high computed willingness to pay, which can be considered an advantage in the foot and mouth disease vaccination program in central Oromia. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure sufficient vaccine supply services to meet the high demand revealed.

Willingness to pay for chronic disease management services provided by primary care nurses

BackgroundDue to the rapid increase in chronic diseases in South Korea, the Korean government has expanded chronic disease management to primary care. Thus, the role of primary care nurses is critical. However, the fee for chronic disease management services provided by primary care nurses has not been set, and few studies have evaluated the value of nursing services. This study aimed to estimate the willingness to pay (WTP) for chronic disease management services provided by primary care nurses and to identify the factors that affect WTP.MethodsThis study adopted a descriptive research design and conducted a cross-sectional online survey from January 16 to 18, 2023. The inclusion criteria were community residents aged ≥ 20 years living in South Korea and capable of participating in online surveys. A total of 520 people participated in this study. A contingent valuation method (CVM) was used with double-bound dichotomous choice questions along with open-ended questions. The mean WTP was calculated using a Tobit model.ResultsThe mean WTP of the 520 study participants for one chronic disease management service provided by primary care nurses was 15,390.71 Korean won ($11.90). Factors affecting WTP were having a chronic disease, recognition of primary care nurses, and the first-bid price. Community residents with fewer chronic diseases, high awareness of primary care nurses, and a higher first-bid price showed higher WTP for chronic disease management services provided by primary care nurses.ConclusionsPrimary care is important worldwide due to the increasing number of chronic diseases, and Korea is no exception. However, payment for services by primary care nurses is undervalued compared to their critical role and skills. This has led to problems such as a primary care nurse shortage and burnout. This study estimated individuals’ WTP for chronic disease management services provided by primary care nurses. The results can be used as a basic resource for setting the fee for services provided by primary care nurses. It is also a good starting point to understand the benefits of primary care nurse services.

Does Willingness to Pay Differ for Mental and Physical Health?

ObjectivesThe urban environment can have a significant impact on mental and physical health. Health impact appraisal of new developments should address these issues. However, transferable economic valuation evidence for urban planners in the United Kingdom is thin, especially around mental health, making it harder to estimate the cost-efficiency of public health interventions to address these conditions. A further complication is that mental health may be perceived differently from physical health. This study examines willingness to pay (WTP) to avoid depression and lower back pain. MethodsWTP estimates were obtained by applying contingent valuation tasks in an online survey with a representative sample in the United Kingdom (N = 1553). Interval regression models were used to estimate the effects of disease severity, payment frequency, and respondent characteristics on WTP. ResultsRespondents’ WTP to avoid both conditions was relatively high (around 5%-6% of stated income to return to current health state). Depression was rated as being twice as burdensome on quality of life than pain, and bids to avoid depression were 20% to 30% more than pain. Analysis of motivation responses suggests mental health treatment is perceived as less easy to access and less effective than the equivalent for pain, and respondents expect a larger burden on their family and relationships as they try to manage their condition themselves. ConclusionsResults suggest that depression bids may be affected by uncertainty around access to effective treatment in the healthcare system. This has implications for how mental illness may be prioritized in resource allocation toward public health interventions.

Climate risk adaptation through livestock insurance: evidence from a pilot programme in Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study investigates the option of choosing index-based livestock insurance (IBLI) to mitigate the adverse effects associated with climate change in Kwara State, Nigeria. Previous studies indicate that the failure to include farmers during the early stage of pilot programme design is a major factor in Africa’s poor participation rate in index insurance. We conducted a survey with 392 farming households across eight of the state's 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs). This survey employed a contingent valuation method (CVM) to assess the value respondents are willing to pay for such insurance and add to the growing literature on IBLI uptake. We discuss important issues ranging from the cost of the IBLI premium to the impact of social capital and access to alternative sources of income on adoption. Our findings show that farmers are willing to pay a 1.3% premium for IBLI, which is lower than the current premium charged for traditional agricultural insurance in Nigeria which typically ranges from 2% to 5%. The results also highlight the need to consider insurance uptake and access to credit as complementary measures, rather than substitute strategies for managing the risks posed by severe climate shocks and extremes.

Evaluating Willingness to Sell Vegetation in the White Volta Basin in Northern Ghana

Concepts of ecosystem services have been developed to make explicit connections between human welfare and ecological sustainability for policy, development, and conservation initiatives. Economic concepts such as the distinction between prices and values, and the acknowledgment of their values are context-specific which may change across space and time. Contingent valuation is a survey-based economic technique for valuing non-market resources, such as vegetation. This method is often used to establish the amount people are willing to be compensated for maintaining the existence of an environmental feature such as a tree, shrub, or grass. The level of importance attached to provisioning services as well as cultural services and cultural heritage differ in the rural communities hence different cash values attached. It is often perceived that rural community members do not put monetary value on vegetation, the study is therefore aimed at establishing monetary value rural communities have value for vegetation. The study was conducted in two irrigated and two unirrigated landscapes consisting of about 54 communities and comprising 240 respondents. Participatory Rural Appraisal tools were used. Random Utility Theory was applied and used for the analysis. The willingness to sell vegetation was significant at a 5% confidence level concerning native, sex, age, education, and household head. Marital status was, however, not significant in all the landscapes. The price trend is observed to be across a landscape, from the catchment to the downstream ecosystem.

Social acceptance of small modular reactor (SMR): Evidence from a contingent valuation study in South Korea

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the social acceptance of the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) in South Korea. The growing interest in SMRs as a potential solution to the challenges of climate change and energy security highlights the need for continued research and development in this area. The research was conducted using a contingent valuation method, which involved surveying a representative sample of the South Korean population. Out of a total of 1032 respondents, 78 % were willing to pay for SMR development. The mean WTP was estimated to be USD 4.28 per year per household and scaled up to the national level in South Korea, it was analysed to have a total economic and social benefit of USD 0.49 billion. The more serious the respondents perceived the current and future problem of climate change to be, the more likely they were to be willing to pay an offered bid amount. This study suggests that the need to address climate change and the need to raise awareness of SMR as one of the low-carbon technologies at the government level is required to generate the appropriate level of social acceptance to promote SMR development.

Intangible Heritage and Local Development the Case of the Casbah of Algiers

Intangible heritage occupies a central place in society as a witness to the traditions and customs handed down byprevious generations. Beyond its cultural dimension, it is an essential means of reinforcing a sense of belonging,sustaining human creativity and revitalizing socio-cultural groups. However, its importance is not limited to simplypassing it on to future generations. This heritage also plays a fundamental role in the sustainable development of thetourism sector and, consequently, the national economy. It is therefore imperative to explore innovative strategies toenhance this heritage while preserving the cultural integrity of communities. The Casbah of Algiers was chosen as anexemplary case study. In-depth surveys were carried out with visitors, cultural associations and tourism agencies. Inaddition, we adopted an economic analysis methodology known as the "contingent valuation method", which enabledus to assess the economic value of the intangible heritage of the Casbah of Algiers. Based on these results, we are ableto propose strategic recommendations for intensifying the conservation of intangible cultural heritage andencouraging sustainable tourism. These recommendations could include awareness-raising actions, training initiatives,collaboration with local stakeholders and targeted marketing campaigns. By promoting intangible heritage, we fostereconomic prosperity while preserving.

갯벌의 보존 가치에 대한 분석

Tidal flats serve as a buffer zone between land and sea, providing a habitat and breeding ground for various intertidal and marine organisms, and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by purifying various pollutants that flow from land to sea. Despite the significant value of tidal flats, research on this subject remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the value of preserving tidal flats using contingent valuation method (CVM) analysis based on survey data. Among 1,000 respondents, only 331 expressed a willingness to pay (WTP) for the conservation of tidal flats. Given the high proportion of non-paying respondents, this study utilized the spike and Turnbull models to compare estimates. The results from the Turnbull method estimated the WTP at 1,855 KRW, which was approximately half that derived from the Spike model. As the Turnbull estimate represents the lower bound of WTP, utilizing the estimate from the Spike model is deemed more appropriate. Additionally, the study differentiated between respondents willing and unwilling to visit tidal flats to derive separate WTP values for use and non-use values of tidal flat conservation. The non-use value was estimated at 1,741.5 KRW, while the use value was determined to be 4,179.2 KRW.