Application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) in the Natural Resources Management

Decision–making in any sector of economy involves multiple objectives, manifold criteria and complexed network of social interests and preferences that demands a systematic approach in order to rationalize and justify the future actions to be taken. Allocation of resources and resource planning have become one of the key issues.The aim of this paper is to contribute to discussion on Geographic Information System and Multi-criteria Decision Analysis and possibilities they could offer in the natural resources management, using the production of hazel as an example. It is possible to improve the economic aspect of the business by applying Multi-criteria Decision Analysis and geographic information systems as a support to decision-making, especially if the user has limited resources or if there are plenty of options at hand, as, for instance, in agricultural production. Through Multi-criteria Decision Analysis and previous research on the subject of analysis, the possibility of modelling the impact on the individual segment of agricultural production is created, not only separately, but as a whole as well. That way, resource management gives the user a realistic possibility for a faster and better production, as well as greater income than it would be possible in the situation of having immense resources available, but which would not be used economically. The paper concludes with recommendations on further actions needed to exploit the full potential of GIS and MCDA