Integrated multi criteria decision analysis and geographic information system framework for hazardous waste route planning

Abstract

This dissertation introduces an integrated Multi criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and Geographic Information System (GIS) approaches to the hazardous waste transport issue. There are risks associated with a truck being involved in an accident during shipment of Hazardous materials (HAZMAT). The severity of impact posed to surroundings depends on many factors such as population density, number of sensitive locations, proximity to rescue units, and security, not only distance and/or time alone. It is essential that all of the related factors and criteria involved be considered prior to making route planning decision. In Thailand, a lack of a comprehensive framework for the selection of HAZMAT route planning that the transporter can use for aiding their decisions is a major concern. The purpose of this dissertation is to develop a framework for making optimum hazardous waste transport route planning choices by considering multiple factors and criteria. Factors and criteria are divided into three main categories; economic, environmental and societal (exposure and emergency response) issues to approach the sustainability paradigm. A framework has been tested to a regional hazardous waste transport from Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate, Rayong province, Thailand to five incinerator plants, located in Saraburi province. A framework is divided to two different methods. The method 1 tried to calculate total final value (Ri) based on single objectives and multiple objectives. Method 2 is applied for the finite sets of alternative routes between origin-destination. The results show that preferred routes (minimum Ri value) are depended on different objectives (single and multiple). The proposed framework can contribute to the planning processes of governmental policy-makers and carriers when they plan and evaluate possible routes and are making their decision in order to minimize damage from transporting hazardous waste.