Multi-attribute decision making and public perceptions of risk in relation to large scale environmental projects

Abstract

Assessment of societal risk perception is a different process compared to traditional risk assessment based on probabilistic risk evaluation methods. Where uncertainty and subjectivity exist, a structured decision making method that can capture public risk perception would help designers to progress toward sustainable product design. In this article a multiple attribute decision making methodology is tested using two groups of experts to assess possible public perceptions of gasification plants. Issues associated with the methodology are discussed.

Keywords:

• Multi-attribute decision making
• risk perception
• public perception
• environment