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Spatial Multiobjective Optimization of Agricultural Conservation Practices using a SWAT Model and an Evolutionary Algorithm
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Multi-objective optimization of solid waste flows: environmentally sustainable strategies for municipalities
Riccardo Minciardi1, Massimo Paolucci, Michela Robba
1DIST, Department of Communication, Computer and System Sciences, University of Genova, Via Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genova, Italy.
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|November 29, 2007
Summary
This study presents a sustainable municipal solid waste (MSW) management approach using a multi-objective model. It optimizes waste flow to landfills, recycling, and treatment plants, minimizing costs and environmental impact.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Operations Research
- Waste Management
Background:
- Municipal solid waste (MSW) management faces complex challenges in balancing economic, environmental, and operational factors.
- Optimizing waste flow and treatment plant capacities is crucial for sustainable urban development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multi-objective optimization model for sustainable MSW management.
- To support decision-making regarding waste flow allocation and facility sizing.
- To minimize economic costs, unrecycled waste, landfill disposal, and environmental impact.
Main Methods:
- A non-linear, multi-objective formulation was developed to model the MSW management problem.
- An interactive reference point procedure was employed to aid decision-making.
- The method was applied to a case study in Genova, Italy, involving two decision-makers.
Main Results:
- The proposed procedure effectively supports decisions in complex MSW management scenarios.
- The model considers multiple conflicting objectives, including cost, recycling rates, landfill use, and emissions.
- Interactive methods facilitate direct decision-maker involvement in the planning process.
Conclusions:
- The developed approach provides a robust framework for optimizing sustainable municipal solid waste management.
- Interactive multi-objective decision support is valuable for environmental applications.
- The methodology is applicable to real-world MSW planning challenges, as demonstrated by the Genova case study.
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