Risk Assessment of Microalgae Carbon Sequestration Projects Under Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Environment

Qinghua Mao, Guihan Dong (), Yang Xiao, Hao Wu (), Yaqing Gao and Jiacheng Fan
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Qinghua Mao: School of Economics and Management, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Guihan Dong: School of Economics and Management, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Yang Xiao: School of Economics and Management, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Hao Wu: Hebei Key Laboratory of Heavy Metal Deep-Remediation in Water and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Yaqing Gao: School of Economics and Management, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
Jiacheng Fan: School of Economics and Management, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-26

Abstract: Microalgae-based carbon sequestration is promising for implementing carbon neutrality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, as the technology remains in its early developmental stages, it presents a range of risks that may deter potential investors. To address these risks, this study proposes a group-based decision-making framework for the risk evaluation of microalgae carbon sequestration projects. Fifteen risk indicators are identified and categorized into four groups, including economic, technical, market, and environmental. To handle uncertainty and vagueness in the assessment, the framework uses trapezoidal fuzzy numbers and hesitant fuzzy linguistic sets to evaluate benchmark values. An expert credibility model is developed to assign weights to expert opinions by combining the subjective RANCOM method and the objective centroid method, both adapted for a fuzzy linguistic environment. A generalized aggregation operator is then used to combine expert evaluations. This operator integrates weighted and ordered averaging techniques and converts probabilistic linguistic terms into trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The final risk level is determined using a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The results indicate a medium-high level of risk, with a similarity score of 0.960. This suggests that while microalgae carbon sequestration holds great promise, effective planning and risk management are essential. For project managers and investors, this proposed framework helps quantify risk. It provides practical guidance for improving decision-making and strengthening project management.

Keywords: microalgae carbon sequestration; carbon capture; utilization; storage; fuzzy multicriteria decision-making (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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