The invisible risks of the trans-Ecuadorian oil pipeline system: An analysis of social preferences in Quito

Abstract

Oil infrastructure poses a significant risk to the people living in its vicinity. Despite the numerous studies conducted on the impact of the industry’s accidents, research into disaster risk reduction relating to the oil pipelines that pass through urban areas is still limited. This study addresses this gap using the Trans-Ecuadorian Oil Pipeline System in the Metropolitan District of Quito (Ecuador) as a case study. A discrete choice experiment is employed to assess the preferences of the local population concerning risk mitigation measures and the extent of their willingness to pay for their implementation. The results reveal that approximately one third of the respondents were unaware of the risks associated with the pipeline, and only 14% were willing to pay for the introduction of risk mitigation strategies. The paper not only highlights the essential requirements for the development of mitigation policies, including the need to improve public awareness of the unrecognised risks, but also emphasises the importance of considering the population’s preferences when designing and implementing measures to mitigate risk