LOCATING HAZARDOUS-WASTE FACILITIES - THE INFLUENCE OF NIMBY BELIEFS

The 'Not-In-My-Backyard' (NIMBY) syndrome is analyzed in economic deci sion making. Belief statements that reflect specific NIMBY concerns ar e subjected to factor analysis and the structure reveals two dimension s: tolerance and avoidance. Tolerance reflects an acceptance of ration al economic arguments regarding the siting of a hazardous waste facili ty and avoidance reflects a more personal fear-of-consequences. Analys is identifies demographic characteristics of individuals likely to exh ibit these two beliefs. These beliefs also are shown to influence the acceptance of a hazardous waste disposal facility in ones neighborhood when compensation is offered.