Enhancing environmental sustainability: Optimal municipal-industrial waste burial site selection in Bandar Abbas, Iran using a fuzzy multi-criteria approach incorporating physical-geotechnical factor

Abstract

Bandar Abbas, Iran faces a significant challenge with the disposal of approximately 500 tons of waste daily, often leading to severe environmental contamination due to improper disposal practices. Existing methodologies for waste management site selection in the region have largely overlooked critical physical-geotechnical factors, focusing primarily on ecological and structural criteria. This study aims to fill this gap by employing a novel fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach that integrates environmental, ecological, structural, and physical-geotechnical factors for optimal burial site identification. Using the Analytic Network Process (ANP) to weigh the criteria, this research develops information layers for each aspect. Euclidean distance mapping, combined with fuzzy operators (AND, OR, SUM, Product) and varied gamma values, generates a superposition map for site suitability analysis. The Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is then applied to rank potential sites and identify the most suitable locations. The results indicate that ecological criteria have the greatest influence on site selection, followed by structural, environmental, and physical-geotechnical factors. Key sub-criteria affecting site selection include proximity to sensitive habitats, residential areas, rivers, and fault lines. Based on the TOPSIS ranking model, five suitable burial locations in Bandar Abbas were identified, with Area 4 (west of Tal Siah Village) emerging as the optimal site. This study contributes to advancing waste management practices by offering a comprehensive, data-driven framework that balances environmental sustainability and geotechnical considerations, providing valuable insights for global application.