| Abstract | A cost-benefit analysis of pollution control of combustion generated emission in Bangkok was attempted by adapting existing standards and economic effects of air quality control in the U.S. The estimated control
cost for gasoline powered passenger vehicle sources to meet projected emission standards for the years 1975-1985 by the installation or inclusion of current control device and anticipated control methods in the U.S. was found to be justifiable because of the expected benefits gained. Control costs for passenger vehicles in Bangkok for the first four projected control stages have no cost but some net gains of O, US$ 0.07143 x 106, US$ 0.28657 x 106, and US$ 0.27018 x 106 for the years 1975 (baseline year), 1977,1979,
and 1981 respectively. For the years 1983 and 1985, the control costs however was estimated to be US$ 0.721 x 106 and US$ 8.779 x 106 respectively. Benefits of pollution control for passenger vehicles in Bangkok, that were derived from the concept of "value" or satisfaction of the system were estimated to be US$ 9.64 x 106, US$ 32.57 x 106, US$ 42.64 x 106, US$ 45 . 22 x 106, and US$ 47.74 x 106 for the same projected control years, while that were derived from severity damage costs avoided were estimated to be US$ 1,793.45, US$ 8,058.53, US$ 16,817.91, US$ 26,103.41 and US$ 36,700.33 respectively. For stationary sources, only the cost of desulfurizing fuel oil was
considered and although it was fund beneficial, it was, however, concluded not feasible based on existing government fund expenditure health. Yearly cost of desulfurizing fuel oil was estimated to be US$ 7.84 x 106 and the damage cost avoided from S02 reduction was estimated to be US$ 133,827.
Cost of desulfurizing fuel oil represents about 0.05% of G.N.P., which is of the order of the total expenditure that the government is spending on all aspects of public health. The concept of considering benefit as "value" or satisfaction of the
system that represents the willingness of the people to pay for an improved air environment could be a useful consideration.
Fund allocation for public health expenditure has not been sufficient in Thailand. A reallocation in government fund expenditure, especially an
allocation for air pollution control is strongly suggested. |