Search

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. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We explored the relationships among human attitudes towards biodiversity, its economic value and the public awareness for biodiversity conservation. Behavioural items and specific human attitudes to species were studied in the framework of a contingent valuation survey conducted in the Doñana National and Natural Park (SW Spain). Our analyses revealed a strong correlation between individuals’ attitudes towards particular species and their stated willingness to allocate funds for their conservation. Factors influencing individuals’ attitudes and willingness to pay are suggested. Overall, we found that the role of affective factors is much greater than the role of ecological-scientific considerations. Familiarity and biophilia factors had a marked effect on the attitude towards paying for biodiversity conservation. Since contingent valuation does not reveal the economic benefits of conserving certain key species; we propose that it should be combined with other non-monetary criteria derived from social-psychology and human ecology disciplines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We estimate demand curves for a one month reduction in waiting time for cataract surgery based on survey data collected in 1992 in Manitoba, Barcelona, and Denmark. Patients answered, "Would you be willing to pay [Bid, B] to reduce your waiting time for cataract surgery to less than one month?" Controlling for SES and visual status, Barcelonan patients have greater WTP for shortened waiting time than the Danes and Manitobans. We estimate the value (in 1992 $) of lost consumer surplus due to the cataract surgery queue at $128 per patient in Manitoba, $160 in Denmark, and $243 in Barcelona. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]