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A Fuzzy Spatial Multiple Criteria Analysis Methodology for Solid Waste Landfill Siting

Author

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  • Themistoklis D. Kontos

    (Laboratory of Remote Sensing and GIS, Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, University Hill, 81132 Mytilene, Greece)

  • Yiannis G. Zevgolis

    (Biodiversity Conservation Laboratory, Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, University Hill, 81132 Mytilene, Greece)

Abstract

The process of siting municipal solid waste landfills in Greece faces significant challenges due to land resource limitations, the country’s mountainous and water-permeable terrain, and strong public opposition. This study introduces a novel methodology for optimizing landfill sites on Lemnos Island in the North Aegean Sea using a Fuzzy Spatial Multiple Criteria Analysis (FSMCA) approach. By combining fuzzy sets theory, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), spatial autocorrelation, spatial clustering and sensitivity analysis, this methodology addresses the uncertainties and complexities inherent in landfill siting. The decision problem is structured hierarchically into five levels to manage multiple criteria effectively. Criteria weights are determined using AHP, with discrete criteria graded according to Greek and EU guidelines, and continuous criteria evaluated through fuzzy sets theory. The region’s suitability is assessed using multiple criteria analysis, revealing that 9.7% of Lemnos Island is appropriate for landfill placement. Sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of the methodology to changes in criteria weights. The case study demonstrates the practical application and benefits of FSMCA in a real-world scenario, underscoring its potential to improve sustainable waste management practices and inform policy making.

Suggested Citation

  • Themistoklis D. Kontos & Yiannis G. Zevgolis, 2024. "A Fuzzy Spatial Multiple Criteria Analysis Methodology for Solid Waste Landfill Siting," J, MDPI, vol. 7(4), pages 1-27, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jjopen:v:7:y:2024:i:4:p:31-528:d:1528862
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ali Chabuk & Nadhir Al-Ansari & Hussain Musa Hussain & Sven Knutsson & Roland Pusch & Jan Laue, 2017. "Combining GIS Applications and Method of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (AHP) for Landfill Siting in Al-Hashimiyah Qadhaa, Babylon, Iraq," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 9(11), pages 1-17, October.
    2. J. Keith Ord & Arthur Getis, 2001. "Testing for Local Spatial Autocorrelation in the Presence of Global Autocorrelation," Journal of Regional Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 41(3), pages 411-432, August.
    3. Peter C. Fishburn, 1967. "Letter to the Editor—Additive Utilities with Incomplete Product Sets: Application to Priorities and Assignments," Operations Research, INFORMS, vol. 15(3), pages 537-542, June.
    4. Navarro Ferronato & Vincenzo Torretta, 2019. "Waste Mismanagement in Developing Countries: A Review of Global Issues," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(6), pages 1-28, March.
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    Cited by:

    1. Eltayeb H. Onsa Elsadig & Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid & Abderrahim Lakhouit & Ghassan M. T. Abdalla & Ahmed Hassan A. Yaseen, 2025. "Integrated Fuzzy-GIS Approach for Optimal Landfill Site Selection in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, Supporting Sustainable Development Goals," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-30, September.

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