Assessing Socio-economic Dynamics and Willingness to Pay for Improved Ecosystem: A Study of Coastal Communities of Korapuzha Estuary, Kerala, India

The present study delved into the socio-economic condition of Korapuzha estuarine community, Kerala, India. The work focused on familiarization of the concept willingness to Pay (WTP) among the respondents and determined significant influence of socio-economic dynamics of respondents with their WTP. A survey covered 425 households, comprising of 1713 individuals. The study signified a high educational status of the respondents (97 %). Despite this, only 7% were initially familiarized with the concept of WTP. It was observed that younger generation and men showed more response of positive WTP. Little influence noticed from lower-income households and women community, justifying with their financial constraints and no role in financial implications. The study observed a significant impact of income earning on WTP with higher income earners willing to contribute more in ecosystem revival. Being a fishing village, a gradual shift noticed in respondent’s livelihood preferences from traditional fishing practices to other subsidiaries (86%). A positive response noticed among respondents (60%) towards the WTP after detailing. The respondents (98.2%) showed strong awareness on the estuary’s declining health and 99% of respondents advocated for immediate government intervention for estuary revival activities. The present study highlighted the formulation of gender-inclusive policies, generation of subsidiary income for livelihood enhancement and more concentration on environmental education and awareness, can result in increased involvement of community in conservational and management measures. The study recommends to uplift the socio-economic dynamics of community and ecosystem sustainability leading to a balanced community development along with sustaining ecological health.