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Evaluating the Barriers to Industrial Symbiosis Using a Group AHP-TOPSIS Model

Author

Listed:
  • Tian Yang

    (School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China)

  • Changhao Liu

    (School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China)

  • Raymond P. Côté

    (School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada)

  • Jinwen Ye

    (School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China)

  • Weifeng Liu

    (School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China)

Abstract

Industrial symbiosis (IS) can contribute to achieving a win-win situation between industry and environment for local and regional circular economies. Many authors have recognized that a variety of barriers can hinder the implementation of IS. However, there is very limited research on quantitatively evaluating the IS barriers. In this paper, we propose a model which combines the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to evaluate the IS barriers semi-quantitatively. This model assists in identifying and prioritizing the fundamental barriers for implementation of IS in a comprehensive manner. An operating IS, the Hai Hua Group (HHG), in Shandong Province, China is used as a case study to test the proposed model. The results show that the top four generic barriers are technological barriers, economic barriers, safety barriers, and informational barriers. More specifically, the barriers are information platforms, human safety and health, technology involved with extending industrial chains, product added value, and costs. The paper concludes by discussing managerial implications for promoting the establishment and operation of IS.

Suggested Citation

  • Tian Yang & Changhao Liu & Raymond P. Côté & Jinwen Ye & Weifeng Liu, 2022. "Evaluating the Barriers to Industrial Symbiosis Using a Group AHP-TOPSIS Model," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(11), pages 1-30, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:11:p:6815-:d:830644
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