An integrated fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach for prioritising strategies to drive the sustainable roll-on/roll-off port development: a case study of Thailand

Abstract

This study proposes a framework for prioritising strategies to drive sustainable roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) port development by combining a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach. The application of the proposed framework uses one of the largest RO/RO ports in Thailand as a case study. First, the measuring perspectives/criteria and driving strategies for sustainable port are identified through the extensive literature review along with port development plan. The fuzzy Delphi method is applied to select the suitable criteria and driving strategies for sustainable development of RO/RO port. Next, the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (fuzzy DEMATEL) is employed to analyse the interrelationship between perspective and criteria as well as their importance weights. Finally, the fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (fuzzy TOPSIS) is utilised to prioritise the driving strategies. The findings of this study indicate that digitalisation is the most important driving strategy followed by technology investment and implementation of the international standard program in developing the sustainable RO/RO port. Although, the proposed framework focuses on RO/RO ports in Thailand, it can be adapted to use with other types of ports as well.