A Hybrid Decision Tool for Site Selection of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) Facilities in Developing Countries

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) is a growing waste stream in the world. The implementation of the circular economy for its management requires decision-making tools based on multiple criteria to identify the most appropriate location for a CDW recycling facility. However, technical, economic, and social criteria do not have the same objectives. This research proposes a hybrid decision tool for site selection for CDW facilities in developing countries applying a multi-criteria analysis complemented by an economic evaluation. To accomplish this purpose, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Fuzzy-Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP), Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), and Monte Carlo simulation were used to rank the potential facility sites. Three criteria and nineteen sub-criteria were considered and weighted by experts. The results showed that: i) the technical criterion (55%) predominated over the social criterion (45%), with CDW quality (14.9%) and social acceptability (14.2%) sub-criteria, respectively; ii) the Monte Carlo simulation evidenced the feasibility of CDW treatment facility with a 94% probability that the Net Present Value (NPV) will be greater than $147,518. The results provide a theoretical basis for site selection of CDW management facility and tools for defining public policies for CDW utilization.