6533b7cffe1ef96bd125830f

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Estimating the non-market benefits of water quality improvement for a case study in Spain: A contingent valuation approach

Salvador Del Saz-salazarJulián Ramajo-hernández

subject

Selection biasgeographyContingent valuationgeography.geographical_feature_categorybusiness.industrymedia_common.quotation_subjectGeography Planning and DevelopmentEnvironmental resource managementDrainage basinManagement Monitoring Policy and LawEconometric modelWater Framework DirectiveVotingKey (cryptography)EconometricsEconomicsWater qualitybusinessmedia_common

description

Abstract This article addresses an important topic related to the application of the European Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Spanish watersheds. Results on a contingent valuation study, aimed to assess the non-market benefits of water quality improvements in the Guadiana river basin (GRB), are shown. Special attention has been paid to the issue of zero willingness-to-pay (WTP) responses, while addressing the possible presence of self-selection caused by protest responses. The results (i) indicate that sample selection bias is not a problem in our application, (ii) allow us to identify some key determinants of voting behaviour, and (iii) through the use of different econometric models allows us to find a robust estimate for the mean WTP to accurately inform decision-making.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2012.05.006