Application of the FUCOM-SAW model for comprehensive risk assessment of contaminated sediments: A case study of the great Bačka Canal and Begej river

Sediment pollution poses significant risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health, necessitating advanced risk assessment methodologies. This study employs a novel integration of the Full Consistency Method (FUCOM) and Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) to develop a comprehensive risk assessment model for contaminated sediments. The FUCOM-SAW model reduces subjectivity in weighting criteria, ensuring logical consistency, while incorporating factors such as pollutant mobility and bioavailability—key to understanding ecological and health risks. The model is applied to sediments from two heavily polluted sites in Serbia: the Great Bačka Canal (GBC) and Begej river. Key criteria, including inorganic and organic pollutants, ecological risks, and human health implications, were analyzed through a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework. Results reveal distinct risk profiles between the sites, with Begej exhibiting higher heavy metal contamination and ecological risks compared to GBC. The FUCOM-SAW model refines conventional regulatory classifications, identifying site-specific differences in sediment contamination levels and prioritizing remediation strategies. Sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of the model under varying weight scenarios, ensuring its adaptability across different environmental contexts. This study demonstrates the potential of the FUCOM-SAW framework as a reliable tool for sediment risk management, offering an integrative approach that aligns with regulatory standards while addressing site-specific challenges. The findings provide actionable insights for optimizing resource allocation, minimizing environmental risks, and advancing sustainable sediment management practices.