Enhancing Decision Making and Decarbonation in Environmental Management: A Review on the Role of Digital Technologies

Abdel-Mohsen O. Mohamed (), Dina Mohamed, Adham Fayad and Moza T. Al Nahyan
Additional contact information
Abdel-Mohsen O. Mohamed: Uberbinder Limited, Oxford OX4 4GP, UK
Dina Mohamed: Educational Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK
Adham Fayad: Business Management, De Montfort University, Dubai Campus, Dubai P.O. Box 294345, United Arab Emirates
Moza T. Al Nahyan: College of Business, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 59911, United Arab Emirates

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 16, 1-34

Abstract: As global concerns about climate change intensify, the need for effective strategies to reduce carbon emissions, has never been more urgent. This review paper explores the crucial role of digital technologies (i.e., data automation (DA) and decision support systems (DSSs)) in enhancing decision making and achieving a ZERONET initiative (decarbonation efforts) within the realms of solid waste management (SWM), wastewater treatment (WWT), and contaminated soil remediation (CSR). Specifically, the paper provides (a) an overview of the carbon footprint (CFP) in relation to environmental management (EM) and the role of DA and DSS in decarbonization; (b) case studies in areas of SWM, WWT, and CSR in relation to the use of (i) digital technology; ((ii) life cycle assessment (LCA)-based DSS; and (iii) multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA)-based DSS; and (c) optimal contractual delivery method-based DSS case studies in EM practices. This review concludes that the adoption of DA and DSSs in SWM, WWT, and CSR holds significant potential for enhancing decision making and decarbonizing EM processes. By optimizing operations, enhancing resource efficiency, and integrating renewable energy sources, smart EM technologies can contribute to a reduction in GHG emissions and the promotion of sustainable EM practices. As the demand for more effective and eco-friendly solutions grows, the role of DA and DSSs will become increasingly pivotal in achieving global decarbonization goals.

Keywords: carbon footprint; data automation; decision support systems; solid waste; wastewater; contaminated soil remediation; life cycle assessment; multi-criteria decision analysis; sustainable project management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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