Fuzzy decision analysis for integrated environmental vulnerability assessment of the mid-Atlantic Region.
A fuzzy decision analysis method for integrating ecological indicators was developed. This was a combination of a fuzzy ranking method and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The method was capable of ranking ecosystems in terms of environmental conditions and suggesting cumulative impacts across a large region. Using data on land cover, population, roads, streams, air pollution, and topography of the Mid-Atlantic region, we were able to point out areas that were in relatively poor condition and/or vulnerable to future deterioration. The method offered an easy and comprehensive way to combine the strengths of fuzzy set theory and the AHP for ecological assessment. Furthermore, the suggested method can serve as a building block for the evaluation of environmental policies.
Tran
Liem T
LT
Center for Integrated Regional Assessment, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA. LTT1@psu.edu
Knight
C Gregory
CG
O'Neill
Robert V
RV
Smith
Elizabeth R
ER
Riitters
Kurt H
KH
Wickham
James
J
D000397:Air Pollution; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D003657:Decision Making; D004777:Environment; D017143:Fuzzy Logic; D005843:Geography; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014876:Water Pollution