Proposal of an Effective Analytical Instrument in Decision-Making Process for the Declaration of Natural Parks in Turkey: The WASPAS Technique

Abstract

Natural parks, which are among the areas with the status of officially protected area, can be defined as areas with natural system integrity, valuable landscape areas, rich natural and cultural features, and alternative recreational activities for users in the conceptual framework. In this study, the suitability of the WASPAS technique was investigated in determining the nature parks with protected area status. In this context, first of all, 262 nature parks located in Turkey were evaluated in terms of natural and cultural landscape dynamics and recreational opportunities. Then, different analytical tools used in Multi-Criteria Decision Making processes were tested and it was concluded that the WASPAS technique could provide efficiency in the determination of nature parks. In line with the methodology of the study, primarily the nature parks located in different geographical regions in Turkey were categorized in terms of their qualities and examined in terms of resource value. Then, the effect of nature parks on sectoral activities was investigated. It has been concluded that the WASPAS technique is suitable for the selection of effective places and alternative routes for the protected areas by considering the protection-use balance and to provide a database containing appropriate criteria by the decision makers with the aim of sustainability. In determining the nature parks under the management and control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in Turkey, the suitability of scientific infrastructure support will provide an important service in terms of supporting the decision-making mechanism in the optimal process.