Public satisfaction and willingness to pay (WTP) for better solid waste management services in rural area of Kelantan, Malaysia

Abstract

In Malaysia rural area, the fixed-rate method is the waste charging approach adopted by the local authorities because of low administration cost, but it is ineffective and has caused many environmental issues. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the public willingness to pay on better solid waste management services at rural area of Kelantan. A total of 911 respondents from three (3) districts (Jeli, Kuala Krai, Gua Musang) participated in this study. The results showed that most respondents (±75%) expressed their satisfaction on current solid waste management services provided. This study indicated that nearly 62% of respondents were willing to pay more for better solid waste management services. This study revealed that the estimated mean willingness to pay (WTP) for better solid waste management service is RM12.05 per household. Logistic regression model suggested that satisfaction on solid waste management services affected the WTP amount, apart from socio-economic factors such as educational level, type of houses, occupation and household income. The results can be useful for understanding the rural resident's attitudes and WTP for solid waste management services.