Abstract
Value functions are devices that allow discrete analyses of environmental impacts to be reconciled to a single quantitative scale of preference. The values obtained can then be “weighted” and combined into measures of the relative desirability of policy alternatives. However, for this methodology to be valid, the set of impacts used must satisfy a number of conditions; and whether or not these are met depends on how the impacts are selected and characterized. This paper generalizes instances where the conditions may be violated and how they may be resolved, and concludes with a few thoughts on how the methodology might be adapted to the routine of bureaucracy.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Literature cited
Buehring, W. A.et al. 1978. Examining energy/environment policy using decision analysis.Energy Systems and Policy 2: 341–367.
Dee, N.et al. 1972.Environmental evaluation system for water resource planning. Battelle Columbus Laboratories, Columbus, Ohio.
Keeney, R. L., and H. Raiffa. 1976.Decisions with multiple objectives: Preferences and value tradeoffs. Wiley, New York.
Skutch, W. W., and K. L. N. Flowerdew. 1976. Measurement techniques in environmental impact assessment.Environmental Conservations 3: 209–217.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory under Contract W-7405-ENG-48.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
O'banion, K. Use of value functions in environmental decisions. Environmental Management 4, 3–6 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01866214
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01866214