A Fuzzy Decision-making Approach to Evaluate CO 2 Emissions Reduction Policies

Abstract

The article aims at multi-criteria decision making analysis using the fuzzy set theory to evaluate different policy options to reduce CO₂ emissions from road transport in case of India. The fuzzy set theory has been applied to investigate different possible measures which the government can adopt to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve air quality. Ordered weighted average operator of linguistic fuzzy set theory is used to rank different policy options. Findings show that the use of low emissions vehicles and the adoption of sustainability-oriented behaviour are considered the most preferred options, which can effectively reduce the CO₂ emissions from road transport. The research shows that fuzzy set theory may be an effective tool in analyzing environmental uncertainties. Analyzing the optimal policy measure and prospects of it in different scenarios would help policymakers in designing and focusing on effective policy measures in order to reduce CO₂ emissions from road transport in a country like India. The study implies ways to assess policy options for environment management and dealing with climate change. This study also fills the gap between the theoretical fuzzy model and its practical implication in policy decision-making, especially in a sustainability area that is more uncertain.