Choosing a solid waste management system using multicriteria decision analysis

We report on an actual application of the ELECTRE III decision-aid in the context of choosing a solid waste management system in the Oulu region, Finland, in 1993. The Electre III method proved useful, especially when dealing with environmental problems involving many decision-makers, and in cases where the outcomes of the various alternatives remain to some degree uncertain. One of the main conclusions of our study is that all the proper landfill capacity available in the planning region should be used up, In addition, the energy potential of waste should be utilized within the region. Therefore, the solution recommended for a solid waste management system was intermediate landfilling, composting and RFD-combustion. The decision-makers commented positively on the method used and were satisfied with the options recommended. The scheme will be implemented for use from the beginning of the year 1995. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.