Potential Use of Economic Instruments in Waste Management in the Arab Countries

Abstract

Changing public behavior towards the environment is considered an essential component in the environmental strategies of all the Arab countries. An important mechanism is using economic instruments (pricing, charges, taxes, and financial incentives) to achieve the desired changes. This article presents potential applications for the use of economic instruments in waste management in the Arab countries. Applications are suggested for implementation in several fields that include wastewater, solid waste, hazardous waste, and agricultural pollution. Examples are presented based on real data from Jordan. In addition, the requirements needed to implement the economic instruments are explained.

Keywords:

• Agricultural pollution
• Arab countries
• Charges
• Economic instruments
• Hazardous waste
• Industrial pollution
• Solid waste
• Taxes
• Water prices
• Wastewater