Application of fuzzy analytical hierarchy process for assessment of combating-desertification alternatives in central Iran

No method exists to increase the efficiency of controlling projects and reclamation of disturbed lands and avoid investment wasting, considering different criteria and alternatives and presenting optimal alternatives based on systematic and group perspectives in combating desertification. Recent proposed alternatives are usually non-systematic and non-comprehensive according to a scientific view. There is no record of application of systematic models such as multiple attribute decision-making in combating desertification. Therefore, in the present research, a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) method has been used to offer optimal alternatives challenging desertification. In the present study, the opinions of experts about alternatives and criteria have been assessed using the Delphi method and pairwise comparison. Then, the final priorities of the alternatives were obtained by a fuzzy decision matrix and the FAHP model. The model’s ability in offering alternatives to combat desertification was assessed in the Khezr Abad region, Yazd province. Based on the obtained results, the alternative of groundwater harvesting modification with weighted average of 93 % was determined as the optimum alternative in the study area; other alternatives had no effective effect in control of desertification. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2015