GIS-based multi-criteria analysis modeling used to locate suitable sites for industries in suburban areas in Bangladesh to ensure the sustainability of agricultural lands

Abstract

Land use changes significantly affect the sustainability of food security, environmental quality and the ecological balance in developing countries. Bangladesh is one such country, and it faces challenges caused by its limited resources of arable land. The urbanization of agricultural lands and urban developments in suburban areas add to these challenges. Therefore, the aim of this study is to characterize the land use changes that occur over time in suburban areas that have potential for industrial growth. This study also assesses potential locations for industrial development by using land suitability analysis (LSA) to emphasize both agricultural and industrial development in terms of sustainable growth. A geographical information system (GIS)-based multi-criteria analysis (MCA) model is developed for the LSA to distinguish compact parcels that are suitable for industrial economic zones. Nine criteria, including seven constraints and 23 factors, are evaluated using the spatial analysis tools in ArcGIS®. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is applied to prioritize these criteria based on experts opinion for the decision-making process of LSA. This study finds that the construction of densely clustered industrial areas has decreased the area of agricultural land by more than 10% in the last two decades. Furthermore, the results of the LSA show that only 4% of the land was highly suitable for industrial sites. On the other hand, four compact parcels that contain 16–10 ha of land and suitable for small industrial zones exist within the study area. Thus, the integrated GIS-MCA model can serve as a policy and planning tool for locating industrial economic zones while preserving agricultural lands and retaining environmental protections.