DEVELOPMENT OF A SUSTAINABILITY INDEX FOR INFRASTRUCUTRE DRAINAGE PROJECTS USING FUZZY SET THEORY

Abstract

This research presents a systematic methodology for assessing the sustainability of infrastructure drainage projects in terms of their alignment with national sustainability goals as well as wider social, environmental and economic objectives. The study reviews the existing gap in standardization of methods for assessing sustainability and proposes a sustainability index. The index is developed using a set of key indicators adapted with the help of experts using a questionnaire. Altogether 28 sustainability indicators were identified, then only 22 indicators were retained after the application of fuzzy set theory criteria to the practice. Fuzzy set theory was implemented to manage the uncertainties in the expert evaluations. The sustainability index was formulated, then applied in a case study of a long-term strategic drainage project in Qatar and the sustainability index of the drainage system was evaluated as 77.9%. The obtained sustainability score revealed an adequate level of compliance with sustainability standards with, but also room for improvement. This study offers a practical tool for use by decision-makers which helps comprehending and enhancing the sustainability performance of infrastructure drainage projects. Recommendations for improvements include early integration of sustainability goals into the projects, enhancing the sustainability guidelines, engaging stakeholders in sustainability efforts, and regular updating of the index in the long term. Even though the study is anchored to a single case, the model presented is replicable for infrastructure drainage projects in various contexts.