Assessing sustainability with multi-criteria methods: A methodologically focused literature review

In this literature review, the use of multi-criteria assessment methods to perform sustainability assessments was studied. It focused on key methodological choices and theoretical underpinnings these choices. The review divided into seven themes: (1) reasons for applying assessments, (2) how alternatives were selected, (3) criteria indicators selected defined, (4) what interpretation applied, (5) weights generated, (6) studies applied uncertainty management, (7) dealt with incommensurability, compensability incomparability criteria. shows a need increased transparency, such as giving insight alternatives, criteria, have been why certain are chosen over others. addition, stakeholder participation should be viewed an end in itself not simply used instrumentally. Furthermore, it is recommended that apply imply incommensurability or weak commensurability when performing respect value-plurality follow notion strong sustainability. Finally, future research needed about decision-making processes foster sustainable development they may pedagogical tools social learning.