Author(s): Olivia Krigsman; Kristina Ek; Jesper Stage

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Abstract: This study estimates the economic value of improving water quality in Swedish lakes and watercourses to inform policy implementation under the EU Water Framework Directive. Household willingness to pay (WTP) for reductions in acidification, eutrophication, pollutants, and physical impact is elicited using a stated preference choice experiment based on regional and national survey data. The results indicate a positive and significant WTP for all environmental problems, with higher values for pollutants and acidification than for physical impact. Nevertheless, improvements related to physical impact generate substantial societal benefits based on the national sample, with estimated values of approximately SEK 780,000 per kilometre of improved watercourse and SEK 1 million per square kilometre of improved lake area over a six-year period. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating non-market values into cost–benefit analyses and support the use of national-level estimates in water management decisions.

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Year: 2026