Applying multi-criteria decision-making to improve the waste reduction policy in Taiwan

Abstract

Over the past two decades, the waste reduction problem has been a major issue in environmental protection. Both recycling and waste reduction policies have become increasingly important. As the complexity of decision-making has increased, it has become evident that more factors must be considered in the development and implementation of policies aimed at resource recycling and waste reduction. There are many studies focused on waste management excluding waste reduction. This study paid more attention to waste reduction. Social, economic, and management aspects of waste treatment policies were considered in this study. Further, a life-cycle assessment model was applied as an evaluation system for the environmental aspect. Results of both quantitative and qualitative analyses on the social, economic, and management aspects were integrated via the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method into the comprehensive decision-making support system of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM). A case study evaluating the waste reduction policy in Taoyuan County is presented to demonstrate the feasibility of this model. In the case study, reinforcement of MSW sorting was shown to be the best practice. The model in this study can be applied to other cities faced with the waste reduction problems.

Waste prevention impacts on small municipalities: Three experiences from northern Italy

“…Therefore, after PAYT application the URW general trend is characterized by a decrease, and this trend has been highlighted in several other studies, such as those by Goorhuis et al (2012), Kling et al (2016), andSu et al (2010).…”

Assessment methods for solid waste management: A literature review

“…The purpose of considering environmental aspects in waste management (from waste generation over collection, recycling, and treatment to the final disposal) is to evaluate the impacts on air, soil, and water, as well as on resource consumption (Su et al, 2010). To protect humans, flora, and fauna, it is necessary to know the environmental aspects of a service or a process.…”

Waste prevention for sustainable resource and waste management

“…Ma reviewed and developed several models to support decision-making in MSW management [63][64][65]. Multiobjective programing (MOP) has been applied to solve MSW management issues, such as selecting site locations and choosing alternatives and strategies [63][64][65][66].…”

“…Su et al applied AHP to evaluate five fly ash management alternatives in Taipei City, Taiwan, while considering the environmental, economic, social, management, and technological aspects [64]. Su et al also applied the TOPSIS method to evaluate four waste reduction policies in Taoyuan County, Taiwan, while considering environmental, administrative, economic, and social aspects [65].…”