A multi-criteria decision support system to rank sustainable desalination plant location criteria

Decision support systems (DSS) are currently developing rapidly and are increasingly used in various fields. More often, those systems are inseparable from information-based systems and computer systems. Therefore, from a methodical point of view, the algorithms implemented in the DSS play a critical role. In this aspect, multi-criteria decision support (MCDA) methods are widely used. As research progresses, many MCDA methods and algorithms for the objective identification of the significance of individual criteria of the MCDA models were developed. In this paper, an analysis of available objective methods for criteria weighting is presented. Additionally, the authors presented the implementation of the system that provides easy and accessible weight calculations for any decision matrix with the possibility of comparing results of different weighting methods. The results of weighting methods were compared using carefully selected similarity coefficients to emphasise the correlation of the resulting weights. The performed research shows that every method should provide distinctive weights considering input data, emphasising the importance of choosing the correct method for a given multi-criteria decision support model and DSS.

Abstract: Flood management problems are inherently complex, time‐bound and multi‐faceted, involving many decision makers (with conflicting priorities and dynamic preferences), high decision stakes, limited technical information (both in terms of quality and quantity), and difficult tradeoffs. Multi‐Criteria Decision Support Systems (MCDSS) can help to manage this complexity and decision load by combining value judgments and technical information in a structured decision framework. A brief overview of MCDSS is presented, an original MCDSS architecture is put forth, and future research directions are discussed, including extensions to Multi‐Criteria Spatial Decision Support Systems and group MCDSS (as flood management involves shared resources and broad constituencies). With application to the September 11‐12, 2000 Tokai floods in Japan, the proposed multi‐criteria decision support instruments enhance communication among stakeholders and improve emergency management resource allocation. In summary, by making the links among flood knowledge, assumptions and choices more explicit, MCDSS increases stakeholder satisfaction, saves lives, and reduces flood management costs, thereby increasing decision‐making effectiveness, efficiency and transparency.

Biodiesel feedstocks selection strategies based on economic, technical, and sustainable aspects

In recent years, the performance of the construction industry has highlighted the increased need for better resource efficiency, improved productivity, less waste, and increased value through sustainable construction practices. The core concept of sustainable construction is to maximize value and minimize harm by achieving a balance between social, economic, technical, and environmental aspects, commonly known as the pillars of sustainability. The decision regarding which structural material to select for any construction project is traditionally made based on technical and economic considerations with little or no attention paid to social and environmental aspects. Furthermore, the majority of the available literature on the subject considered three sustainability pillars (i.e., environmental, social, and economic), ignoring the influence of technical aspects for overall sustainability assessment. Industry experts have also noted an unfulfilled need for a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique that can integrate all stakeholders’ (project owner, designer, and constructor) opinions into the selection process. Hence, this research developed a decision support system (DSS) involving MCDM techniques to aid in selecting the most sustainable structural material, considering the four pillars of sustainability in the integrated project delivery (IPD) framework. A hybrid MCDM method combining AHP, TOPSIS, and VIKOR in a fuzzy environment was used to develop the DSS. A hypothetical eight-story building was considered for a case study to validate the developed DSS. The result shows that user preferences highly govern the final ranking of the alternative options of structural materials. Timber was chosen as the most sustainable option once the stakeholders assigned balanced importance to all factors of sustainable construction practices. The developed DSS was designed to be generic, can be used by any group of industry practitioners, and is expected to enhance objectivity and consistency of the decision-making process as a step towards achieving sustainable construction.

The textile industry contributes significantly to the world economy. In the Industry 4.0 era, the textile manufacturing process is expected to be more flexible. Whereas the intricate relationship between the large-scale variables can lead to the extreme difficulty of decision-making issues. In order to overcome these issues and provide a feasible solution to textile manufacturing firms, machine learning techniques are proposed to construct decision support systems. The model can map the uncertain interrelationship of the parameters and performances of a textile manufacturing process that lay the foundation of a decision support system. Upon a summarization of related works, a specific case study is conducted on modeling a textile finishing process using artificial neural networks (ANN), integrating analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm, to develop a novel multi-criteria decision support system. The result showed that the established system can master the challenging decision-making tasks in the textile manufacturing process with multiple criteria.

Framework for evaluating the successful implementation of solar home systems in public housing projects in the United Arab Emirates

Despite many advances in the field of hydroinformatics, the policy and decision-making world is unable to use these highly technical decision support systems (DSSs) because there has been an undue emphasis on the technological aspects. The historical analysis of hydroinformatics concepts and modelling shows that the technical aspects have been incorporated far better than the social aspects. Hence, there have been calls for the development of ‘socio-technical’ DSSs. However, far greater effort is required to incorporate social and political sciences into the domain of DSSs. The goal of this chapter is to elaborate on the illusive interface between science and water policy within the context of DSSs. It is an attempt to address one main question: how to link or find an interface between policy (institutional matters) and science (technical and natural environment aspects). To achieve this goal, a new paradigm for the DSS modelling approach has been envisaged based on combining multiple theoretical and analytical frameworks into a single methodological framework to attain a linkage between science and policy-making. The integrated methodological framework comprises of: (1) two ‘conceptual’ frameworks: (a) decision-making perspectives and (b) IWRM interface frameworks; (2) analytical frameworks: (a) DPSIR socio-technical assessment and (b) institutional analysis (IA) frameworks; (3) core engine of the DSS consisting of coupled decision support tools (DST) such as process, planning and evaluation models; and (4) a stakeholder participation interface framework consisting of (a(a multi-windowed dynamic cyber stakeholder interface (MDCSI) system and (b) DSS performance assessment (uncertainty and risk analysis) tools, within a shell of a graphical user interface (GUI). From experience, it can be concluded that DSSs are not just about software packages but they are a participatory communication platform for an interactive multi-stakeholder decision-making process. The required science-policy interface can be achieved by using a unique analytical approach in which technical, policy and institutional frameworks are combined within a DSS platform with an output framework, the MDCSI system, that facilitate policy dialogue by having a dynamic and interactive policy interface which can be linked to other technical and non-technical systems. DSSs should be integrated with institutional and socio-political frameworks to help attain both financial and institutional sustainability.

Despite many advances in the field of hydroinformatics, the policy and decision-making world is unable to use these highly technical decision support systems (DSSs) because there has been an undue emphasis on the technological aspects. The historical analysis of hydroinformatics concepts and modelling shows that the technical aspects have been incorporated far better than the social aspects. Hence, there have been calls for the development of ‘socio-technical’ DSSs. However, far greater effort is required to incorporate social and political sciences into the domain of DSSs. The goal of this chapter is to elaborate on the illusive interface between science and water policy within the context of DSSs. It is an attempt to address one main question: how to link or find an interface between policy (institutional matters) and science (technical and natural environment aspects). To achieve this goal, a new paradigm for the DSS modelling approach has been envisaged based on combining multiple theoretical and analytical frameworks into a single methodological framework to attain a linkage between science and policy-making. The integrated methodological framework comprises of: (1) two ‘conceptual’ frameworks: (a) decision-making perspectives and (b) IWRM interface frameworks; (2) analytical frameworks: (a) DPSIR socio-technical assessment and (b) institutional analysis (IA) frameworks; (3) core engine of the DSS consisting of coupled decision support tools (DST) such as process, planning and evaluation models; and (4) a stakeholder participation interface framework consisting of (a(a multi-windowed dynamic cyber stakeholder interface (MDCSI) system and (b) DSS performance assessment (uncertainty and risk analysis) tools, within a shell of a graphical user interface (GUI). From experience, it can be concluded that DSSs are not just about software packages but they are a participatory communication platform for an interactive multi-stakeholder decision-making process. The required science-policy interface can be achieved by using a unique analytical approach in which technical, policy and institutional frameworks are combined within a DSS platform with an output framework, the MDCSI system, that facilitate policy dialogue by having a dynamic and interactive policy interface which can be linked to other technical and non-technical systems. DSSs should be integrated with institutional and socio-political frameworks to help attain both financial and institutional sustainability.

Objectives: The effects of the UN Decade under the recently approved Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were investigated, and a set of policy measures for a "second decade" in line with these objectives was proposed and future possible scenarios were described in terms of social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainable development in higher education institutions. This study aims to explore the role of International Environmental Law (IEL) in promoting Sustainable Market Orientation (SMO), particularly in the United Arab Emirates region. SMO integrates three crucial sustainability attributes: social, environmental, and economic, which are key considerations in the modern international markets. This study explores the application of sustainable development theory and alternative international market paradigms to the new approach known as SMO within the higher education market. Currently, there is a lack of systematic effort to establish a valid measure of SMO. It seeks to identify mechanisms through which IEL can promote SMO in the UAE higher education markets. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on IEL principles set forth by the United Nations, which highlight the incorporation of economic, social, and environmental aspects. The core of this framework lies in recognizing that SMO and international legal modernization play key roles in harmonizing sustainable development objectives while safeguarding natural resources. Moreover, the framework is informed by environmental governance theories, and reforms in the international higher education markets. Method: Both primary and secondary data were utilized in the research. Secondary data involved analyzing Scopus and Web of Science databases to review published research. Primary data was acquired through an online survey and saved onto Google Drive, a file management platform. This approach facilitates straightforward online data collection and easy access to the gathered responses. Data were obtained from students, faculty members, managers, assistants, and administrative supervisors at the globally recognized Abu Dhabi University. A descriptive-analytical approach was utilized to assess the existing international environmental legal frameworks, and trends in SMO practices in the United Arab Emirates, which is moving towards internationalizing higher education. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that SMO distinguishes itself from traditional marketing orientation (MO) by specifically encompassing MO (cultural and behavioral perspectives), essential SO (society-oriented), organizational innovation, and co-creation value orientations. SMO integrates three crucial sustainability attributes: economic, social, and environmental, which are key alternatives in the modern international markets. Scale development and validation offer strong empirical support that SMO is closely linked with commitment to International Environmental Law (IEL). The research findings suggest that these initiatives lead to mutually advantageous outcomes by enhancing environmental performance. The effectiveness of IEL relies on robust enforcement measures and collaborative efforts among nations to address shortcomings in Sustainable Market Orientation (SMO) and incentivize HEIs to adopt eco-friendly practices. Research Implications: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how IEL can achieve SMO within higher education markets. Furthermore, it sheds light on addressing intricate sustainable development issues in the Middle East and Asia region. Achieving a balance between economic, social, and environmental orientations may require intentional policy development and implementation for SMO. Policymakers and legal experts can utilize this study to establish a framework for harmonizing national higher education strategies with global sustainability objectives, fostering enduring resilience in response to environmental challenges. It is crucial to highlight in future studies that upholding the International Law for Sustainable Development (ILSD) and endorsing the Declarations on Sustainability in Higher Education (SHE) are pivotal in advancing sustainability endeavors and garnering global acclaim within higher education establishments. This trajectory is projected to gain momentum in the years ahead. Originality/Value: The study offers a novel integration of international environmental legal reform, SMO, and sustainable development within the specific socio-political and environmental context of the Middle East and Asia region. This study provides a multidimensional perspective that is essential for effective and inclusive sustainable development policymaking. The current study differs from prior studies in several aspects. Firstly, it was conducted within a new framework of SMO within the realm of IEL literature. Secondly, it examined the progression of international market principles towards SMO, encompassing various strategies in international trade (economic, social, and environmental). Finally, this study focused on the Emirati higher education market, an area where research on SMO and IEL is lacking thus far.

The objective is to present a matrix to identify environmental and social aspects which may impact the initiation, assessment, approval of final investment decision and implementation of oil and gas projects in Mexico. The matrix is applied to 19 blocks. The results demonstrate the usefulness in ease of identification of key elements which may be focus of attention to project feasibility. This may be used as tool for resource classification, and thus adapted to other countries. The Agency for Safety, Energy and Environment (ASEA) with collaboration from the Energy Ministry (SENER) were involved while the project selection was integrated by the National Hydrocarbon Commission (CNH). CNH selected 19 blocks for review with 75 oil and gas projects. SENER and ASEA developed a matrix with clear identification of environmental and social aspects which may have an impact on the potential implementation of each project. The traffic light and multivariate analysis methods were adopted to colour code the environmental and social elements. This coding allowed quick identification of key areas which need to be addressed for project feasibility. The selected blocks were located both offshore and onshore with different environmental and social issues. Unconventional and conventional resource developments were covered in the projects. The use of the matrix provided a consistent tool for better identification and understanding of the social and environmental aspects interacting in each block. It also emphasized the main sources of information and the best way to evaluate systematically the social and environmental aspects. The application of the matrix on real blocks exposed the social and environmental aspects that must to be addressed for the oil industry to develop from a sustainable vision. The evaluation of diverse blocks allowed for the identification of common characteristics and the subsequent classification of the blocks. The developed matrix may be used as a tool for making energy policy decisions. At the national level, it may also assist in understanding and meeting some of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's). This paper presents a novel matrix to identify environmental and social elements relevant for the development of any oil and gas project. It also proposes a useful traffic light and multivariate analysis methods for the evaluation of these elements. The matrix allows quick and easy reference for identification of the key elements which may be focus of attention to oil and gas project feasibility. This approach may benefit the decision-making process within an integrated sustainability perspective.

Sustainable construction aims to minimize harm and maximize value by achieving a balance between social, economic, technical, and environmental aspects, commonly known as the pillars of sustainability. In recent years, the construction industry has drawn increasing criticism due to its low productivity and high rates of energy consumption, generation of wastes, and greenhouse gas emissions. Traditionally, projects are selected based on return on investment and economic impact, whereas social and environmental considerations have received relatively little attention. When all pillars of sustainability are considered during the selection, taking a decision becomes more complicated. As such, in many cases, the owner opts not to employ a formal decision-making process in determining the most sustainable alternatives. This paper developed a multi-criteria Decision Support System (DSS) to aid stakeholders in deciding on the most sustainable option among many alternatives. Choosing by Advantage (CBA) has been used in this paper for developing a decision-making model considering the four pillars of sustainability. Multiple social, economic, technical, and environmental criteria are identified and evaluated through a case study. The selection of metro rail project from three alternative routes was assessed considering sustainability criteria using the CBA model. The case study stands as a valuable point of reference for identifying the best possible alternative for comparable future projects. Moreover, the developed DSS is expected to enhance objectivity and consistency in selection and to aid in making better decisions in terms of sustainability for any similar construction projects.

Sustainable construction aims to minimize harm and maximize value by achieving a balance between social, economic, technical, and environmental aspects, commonly known as the pillars of sustainability. In recent years, the construction industry has drawn increasing criticism due to its low productivity and high rates of energy consumption, generation of wastes, and greenhouse gas emissions. Traditionally, projects are selected based on return on investment and economic impact, whereas social and environmental considerations have received relatively little attention. When all pillars of sustainability are considered during the selection, taking a decision becomes more complicated. As such, in many cases, the owner opts not to employ a formal decision-making process in determining the most sustainable alternatives. This paper developed a multi-criteria Decision Support System (DSS) to aid stakeholders in deciding on the most sustainable option among many alternatives. Choosing by Advantage (CBA) has been used in this paper for developing a decision-making model considering the four pillars of sustainability. Multiple social, economic, technical, and environmental criteria are identified and evaluated through a case study. The selection of metro rail project from three alternative routes was assessed considering sustainability criteria using the CBA model. The case study stands as a valuable point of reference for identifying the best possible alternative for comparable future projects. Moreover, the developed DSS is expected to enhance objectivity and consistency in selection and to aid in making better decisions in terms of sustainability for any similar construction projects.

Development of a multiple criteria based decision support system for environmental assessment of recycling measures in the iron and steel making industry

Nuclear desalination concept and implementation spanning 50 years are recognized as an economical viable option for water and electricity production but could not receive wider applications. This is due to various factors, in addition to technical design parameters, other factors, such as social, economic, and environmental issues, need to be considered. For this purpose, the current studies start with performing a critical and up-to-date literature review on previous investigations in the field of nuclear reactors and integrated nuclear power with desalination plants with a specific focus on performance criteria, technical specifications, etc. Reviewing and compiling the most updated technical specifications, cost estimations, and environmental data related to nuclear power and desalination plants are also important steps. Previous studies show a special focus on other important issues on nuclear desalination characteristics in countries including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, India, and Kuwait. This work presents a concise review of previous works on the relevancy of other issues, such as economic, environmental, and social, associated with the use of nuclear energy in power generation and fresh water production. Preliminary assessment of possible hybrid configurations of nuclear and desalination technologies is developed and assessed by a computational program. Both operating and capital cost of the integrated plants are calculated. The simulation model is then extended to compare with other heating reactors as well for the verification analysis. The results obtained from comparative assessment depicts the accuracy of the simulation model used for preliminary assessment of the integrated nuclear desalination option. The main objective of the research is to assess the nuclear desalination plant development in terms of social, economic and environmental aspects. The results will pave the way for countries interested in developing nuclear desalination plants.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of sustainability report disclosure on economic, environmental, and social aspects on company value, considering company size as a control variable. The sample used in this study includes 30 energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and consistently publish sustainability reports during the period 2021 to 2023. The analysis method used is multiple linear regression. The results of the study show that disclosure on the economic aspect has a positive and significant effect on company value. Conversely, the environmental aspect does not show a significant relationship, while the social aspect actually has a significant negative impact on company value. This finding reflects that the market in Indonesia still pays primary attention to economic performance, while social and environmental aspects have not been fully considered as the main indicators in assessing company value. Therefore, transparency in the economic aspect is an important strategy in increasing investor attractiveness and company value.