Willingness of the Poor to Pay for Improved Access to Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Services

Abstract

This study uses a contingent valuation method and multiple linear regression techniques to determine the factors that could affect the willingness to pay for solid waste collection and disposal services of householders residing in the squatter and low-cost flats in the city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. One of the main problems experienced by many developing nations is the lack of service provisions, particularly in the low-income areas. Because such conditions adversely affect the quality of life of the poor, local stakeholders’ participation in social and environmental activities is necessary to resolve such socially undermining and environmentally degrading problems. In fact, tackling such a problem would require massive investment schemes by local governments. However, the governments of developing nations usually suffer from heavily burdened and stretched financial and economic resources and a high opportunity cost of funds. Therefore, society’s participation is logically and realistically needed for widening infrastructure and environmental service provisions.