ABSTRACT
This book explores the acceptance and use of MCDA techniques in managing natural resources in both developed and developing countries. Ten empirical applications and one theoretical treatment (chapter 11) of MCDA are presented covering areas in the USA, Australia, Canada, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka. This concluding chapter draws on these contributions to illustrate the key concepts and identify important trends in the practice of MCDA. It also identifies broad insights and practical and theoretical implications that are valuable in future use of MCDA. Three relevant questions are addressed: (1) are there discernible trends in the use, adoption, and adaptation of MCDA techniques by researchers and policy makers?; (2) can inter-sectoral and inter-country comparisons be made that indicate greater or lesser receptivity to these techniques?; and (3) what have the chapters revealed about the prospects of more widespread use of MCDA techniques in addressing natural resource management issues in developed and developing countries? Answers to these questions shine the spotlight on an underused set of tools that has significant potential. Obstacles facing successful implementation of MCDM are also discussed. Finally this chapter offers some suggestions for how MCDA can be used to overcome natural resource management problems.
