Abstract

In this study, we used choice experiment data to analyze the accuracy of benefit transfer (BT) between two case study areas in Sweden for attributes relevant to the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive and special consideration zones in marine areas. The accuracy and reliability of a BT based on a model including only easily available socioeconomic information is similar to the accuracy of a BT based on a model that gives the best statistical fit, but requires time-consuming data collection. Further, the former model has almost as good a fit as the latter. The BT error varies significantly across the attributes, regardless of which model is used. The results are inconclusive as to whether socioeconomic adjustments improve transfer or not

Keywords

Benefit transfer; Choice experiment; Coastal environment; Socioeconomic characteristics; Special consideration zones; Water quality

Published in

CERE Working Paper
2011, number: 2011:2
Publisher: Centre for Environmental and Resource Economics, Department of Economics, Umeå Universit

Authors' information