A Sustainable Decision-Making Framework for Open Pit Mining Site Selection: An Integrated Step Method and Multi-Attribute Utility Theory

The selection of optimal mining site location is crucial for attaining sustainable mining practices, especially within the wake of new and renewable energy developments. The current literature predominantly focuses on economic factors, exhibit excessive subjectivity, and fails to incorporate the evolving preferences of decision-makers. This study develops a multi-criteria decision-making model for selecting open-pit mining sites utilizing the Step Method (STEM) and Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) methodologies. This dual approach was selected for its ability to address variations in unit dimensions among the three pillars of sustainability, thereby facilitating more rapid, precise, and objective decision-making in the selection of mining sites. The developed algorithm presents 10 sub-criteria across three criteria—economic, environmental, and social— to assist decision-makers in identifying the optimal open-pit mining location. The developed model is applicable to the characteristics of openpit mineral mining systems in general, featuring two product options. The numerical illustration indicates that the proposed model can address complex mine site selection issues involving numerous factors of diverse dimensions.