An analysis of barriers for successful implementation of municipal solid waste management in Beijing: an integrated DEMATEL-MMDE-ISM approach

Wang, C., Sun, Y., Lim, M. K. , Ghadimi, P. and Azadnia, A. H. (2023) An analysis of barriers for successful implementation of municipal solid waste management in Beijing: an integrated DEMATEL-MMDE-ISM approach. Industrial Management and Data Systems, 123(3), pp. 931-966. (doi: 10.1108/IMDS-08-2022-0464)

Abstract

Purpose: With rapid industrialization and urbanization, municipal solid waste (MSW) management has become a serious challenge worldwide, especially in developing countries. The Beijing Municipality is a representative example of many local governments in China that are facing MSW management issues. Although there have been studies in the area of MSW management in the literature, less attention has been devoted to developing a structured framework that identifies and interprets the barriers to MSW management in megacities, especially in Beijing. Therefore, this study focuses on identifying a comprehensive list of barriers affecting the successful implementation of MSW management in Beijing. Design/methodology/approach: Through an extensive review of related literature, 12 barriers are identified and classified into five categories: government, waste, knowledge dissemination, MSW management process and market. Using an integrated approach including the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), maximum mean de-entropy algorithm (MMDE) and interpretive structural modeling (ISM), a conceptual structural model of MSW implementation barriers is constructed to provide insights for industrial decision-makers and policymakers. Findings: The results show that a lack of economic support from the government, imperfect MSW-related laws and regulations, the low education of residents and the lack of publicity of waste recycling knowledge are the main barriers to MSW management in Beijing. Combined with expert opinions, the paper provides suggestions and guidance to municipal authorities and industry practitioners to guide the successful implementation of MSW management. Practical implications: The findings of this study can provide a reference for MSW management in other metropolises in China and other developing countries. Originality/value: This study proposes a hybrid DEMATEL-MMDE-ISM approach to resolve the subjectivity issues of the traditional ISM approach and it analyzes the barriers that hinder MSW management practices in Beijing.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This research is funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (72071006).
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Lim, Professor Ming
• Authors: Wang, C., Sun, Y., Lim, M. K., Ghadimi, P., and Azadnia, A. H.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
• Journal Name: Industrial Management and Data Systems
• Publisher: Emerald
• ISSN: 0263-5577
• ISSN (Online): 1758-5783
• Published Online: 14 February 2023
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
• First Published: First published in Industrial Management and Data Systems 123(3): 931-966
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy