Application of AHP and ELECTRE models for assessment of dedesertification alternatives

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Environment, College of Agriculture, Takestan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Takestan, Iran

2 Department of Arid and Mountainous Region Reclamation, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

Abstract

The assessment of de-desertification alternatives can be effective in controlling the reclamation of disturbed land
and avoiding destruction of areas at risk. Until now, there has been no method to consider different criteria and
alternatives, or to present the optimum alternatives based on systematic structures and experts’ perspectives.
Desertification is a complex process resulting from various factors, including anthropogenic activities; the selection
of optimum alternatives is a very difficult task. This paper attempts to represent the optimum alternatives based on
the Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Model (MADM). For this purpose, the initial priorities for alternatives were
determined by Expert Choice (EC) software via Elimination and Choice Translating Reality (known as ELECTRE).
Then, the final priorities for alternatives were assessed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). This model
was tested in the Khezr Abad region, Yazd Province, to evaluate the determination of optimum alternatives. The
results indicated that prevention of unsuitable land use changes, vegetation cover development and reclamation, and
changes in groundwater harvesting, with weight averages of 22.9, 21.8 and 19.1 %, respectively, are the most
important desertification alternatives in the study area.
 

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