Facility location selection in reverse logistics using a type-2 fuzzy decision aid method

Location selection for the process of moving goods from their final destination to ensure proper value creation is a multi-faceted issue which requires consideration of social, economic, environmental and technical factors. The fuzzy sets theory is a good tool for dealing with complex and subjective problems which make use of implicit human judgments. Type-2 fuzzy sets provide more degrees of freedom to reflect the uncertainty and the ambiguity of real cases. The aim of this study is to suggest a multi criteria approach for the selection of the most appropriate reverse logistics facility location using a type-2 fuzzy TOPSIS methodology. Using proposed methodology, a case study from an e-waste recycling industry is conducted. In the evaluations, criteria like social acceptability, environmental risks, biodiversity conservation, operation and investment costs, energy and transportation infrastructure, legal/political environment, and growth potentials of the region are considered.