On the use of subjective well-being data for environmental valuation

Citation

Ferreira S & Moro M (2010) On the use of subjective well-being data for environmental valuation. Environmental and Resource Economics, 46 (3), pp. 249-273. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10640-009-9339-8

Abstract
This paper explores the potential of using subjective well-being (SWB) data to value environmental attributes. A theoretical framework compares this method, also known as the life-satisfaction approach, with the standard hedonic pricing approach, identifying their similarities and differences. As a corollary, we show how SWB data can be used to test for the equilibrium condition implicit in the hedonic approach (i.e., equality of utility across locations). Results for Ireland show that the equilibrium condition required by the hedonic pricing approach in Irish markets does not hold. They also show that air quality, in the baseline specification, andwarmer climate, across all the specifications, have a significant positive impact on SWB. Their associated monetary estimates, however, seem too large.

Keywords
Environmental valuation; Happiness; Hedonic pricing; Subjectivewell-being; Life satisfaction; Climate; Air pollution

Journal
Environmental and Resource Economics: Volume 46, Issue 3