Household willingness-to-pay for waste emptying and collection services in Bangladeshi municipalities: toward a green urban business model

Abstract

Bangladesh's rapid urbanization has exacerbated municipal waste-management challenges, yet few studies examine how household economics shape service uptake. This paper investigates the relationships among household income, expenditure, service costs, and willingness-to-pay (WTP) for emptying and collection services in five diverse municipalities—Lakshmipur, Lalmonirhat, Saidpur, Sakhipur, and Teknaf. A structured questionnaire captured average monthly income, average monthly expenditure, current cost per emptying trip, existing monthly payment for community-based solid-waste collection, willingness to pay a premium for improved emptying services, and desired WTP level. Data were analyzed using SPSS, employing Pearson correlation and multiple regression to identify key economic drivers of WTP, and exploratory factor analysis to uncover latent attitudes toward green service provision. By situating the findings within a municipality-led governance framework, where local authorities can both incentivize green practices and penalize harmful behaviors, this study informs the design of sustainable, revenue-positive service models. We conclude with recommendations for tiered pricing, targeted subsidies, and participatory planning to foster equitable, cost-effective waste management and to advance a viable green business model in resource-constrained urban settings.