Application of AHP and ELECTRE models for assessment of dedesertification alternatives

The assessment of de-desertification alternatives can be effective in controlling the reclamation of disturbed landand avoiding destruction of areas at risk. Until now, there has been no method to consider different criteria andalternatives, or to present the optimum alternatives based on systematic structures and experts’ perspectives.Desertification is a complex process resulting from various factors, including anthropogenic activities; the selectionof optimum alternatives is a very difficult task. This paper attempts to represent the optimum alternatives based onthe Multiple Attribute Decision-Making Model (MADM). For this purpose, the initial priorities for alternatives weredetermined by Expert Choice (EC) software via Elimination and Choice Translating Reality (known as ELECTRE).Then, the final priorities for alternatives were assessed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). This modelwas tested in the Khezr Abad region, Yazd Province, to evaluate the determination of optimum alternatives. Theresults indicated that prevention of unsuitable land use changes, vegetation cover development and reclamation, andchanges in groundwater harvesting, with weight averages of 22.9, 21.8 and 19.1 %, respectively, are the mostimportant desertification alternatives in the study area.