Determinants of Household Willingness to Pay for Improved Waste Management Services in Urban Nepal

Abstract

In urban areas across Nepal, waste management has become an increasingly critical issue, with rapid urbanization and population growth putting immense pressure on the existing infrastructure. Despite the growing challenges, there is limited research into the factors that determine households' willingness to pay (WTP) for improved waste management services. This paper investigates the determinants of WTP for waste management services in urban Nepal, drawing on both economic theory and empirical data collected from households in Kathmandu and other urban centers. Through a combination of surveys, statistical analysis, and interviews, we identify the key factors influencing household decisions to pay for these services. Our findings reveal that income level, education, environmental awareness, and the perceived quality of existing waste management systems significantly affect WTP. The study concludes by providing policy recommendations for enhancing waste management systems in urban Nepal, highlighting the role of community engagement and government intervention in improving waste management practices.