An economic analysis of localized pollution: rendering emissions in a residential setting

Abstract

The contingent value method is employed to estimate economic damages to households resulting from rendering plant emissions in a small town. Household willingness to accept (WTA) and willingness to pay (WTP) are estimated individually and in aggregate. The influence of household characteristics on WTP and WTA is examined via regression models. The perception of health risk is an important determinant of household valuation, while income appears insignificant. Both WTA and WTP results indicate that a potential pareto-improvement is possible with the incorporation of current abatement technology.

Citation

Bowker, J. Michael; MacDonald, H.F. 1991. An economic analysis of localized pollution: rendering emissions in a residential setting. Canadian Journal of Agricultural Economics, Vol. 41: 45-59