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The application of fuzzy sets theory in eco-city classification

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Abstract

Fuzzy sets concept can solve the problem of imprecise data or varied scales of measurement in the attributes of the city theme. This article highlights this advantage of fuzzy sets theory by discussing how it can be appropriately applied to a research problem related to city characterization. Using eco-city as a hypothetical case, this article demonstrates a fuzzy sets application and its three basic fuzzy sets operations, namely complementation or negation, union and intersection in eco-city classification. Arbitrarily selected eco-city attributes include green coverage, recycling ratio and the rate of vehicle increase. This article finally suggests important research areas, possible policy recommendations and noticeable difficulties in spatial and regional study that can utilize the proposed fuzzy sets approach.

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Acknowledgements

The author thanks the inspiration of fizzy set idea by Professor Yee Leung of the Department of Geography and Resource Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. ‘For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding’ (Proverbs 2:6).

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  1. Department of Geography and Resource Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 244, Sino Building, CUHK, Sha Tin, N.T, Hong Kong, China

    Chung-Shing Chan

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Chan, CS. The application of fuzzy sets theory in eco-city classification. Place Brand Public Dipl 13, 4–17 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1057/pb.2016.8

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