The ability to assess the suitability of certain locations allows for difficult decisions to be looked at from a more concrete point of view as opposed to making guesses on what would most likely be the most desirable site. By using cut and dry numbers the choice is removed and replaced by an obvious answer. The maps allows for subjectivity to be removed and an objective decision to be made.
The weighted values option also makes a huge difference, especially in this case. Not all variables are equal, and in this case, when the weighted option was developed it made a completely different map. Certain variables are much more important than others, especially when choosing the location of a hazardous waste site that could negatively effect whatever location was chosen.
The weighted options made a huge difference in the development of the map, which is a major improvement. As we saw with the article, the waste site is incredibly hazardous, causing birth defects and cancer in the surrounding areas. The safety of those around the area is a large component in choosing such a huge project. The weighting of options could save people's lives who would have been put in jeopardy if the project had not decided that certain components were more valuable than others.
Also, the multiple variables going into the project makes this a complex and difficult project. The raster calculator makes it much simpler and quicker to assess the potential of every single point within the entire county. When there are such major issues with landfills, as they take up space, lower the value of the area and affect the health of the inhabitants in the area, the ability to include and process so many different aspects makes the project much less scary, as the consequences of choosing incorrectly could be incredibly detrimental.
Overall, this program makes the work much easier. Every variable is accounted for, every possibility is assessed, and the choice becomes much less risky when viewed from every angle. Ultimately, the ability to choose the safest possible location could save money, resources, and possibly even lives.
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