Multi-Criteria AHP Approach for the Optimal Selection of Sites for Transport and Water Storage: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

In decision-making issues involving a strong spatial dimension, such as the search for the optimal position for an arrangement, decision-makers must face a multitude of information, performance indicators, and the requirements of sustainable development. Often, the choices made reflect more trade-offs between technical constraints and financial budgets than environmental priorities. To overcome this limitation, we propose an approach combining Geographic Information Systems and multi-criteria analysis. The Analytic Hierarchy Process method is particularly effective for prioritizing sites based on multiple and sometimes conflicting criteria. Considering six criteria (social, environmental, and economic), we demonstrate the relevance of this approach through an applied illustration, thus offering a robust decision aid for the selection of optimal sites.