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Spatial Multiobjective Optimization of Agricultural Conservation Practices using a SWAT Model and an Evolutionary Algorithm
Published on: December 9, 2012
A dynamic optimization model for solid waste recycling
Davide Anghinolfi1, Massimo Paolucci, Michela Robba
1DIBRIS - Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering, University of Genova, Via Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genova, Italy. davide.anghinolfi@unige.it
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|November 20, 2012
Summary
This study introduces a dynamic model for optimizing recycling collection routes and schedules. The findings show that optimized waste collection can significantly increase net benefits compared to current policies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Operations Research
- Waste Management
Background:
- Recycling is a critical component of sustainable waste management, encompassing environmental, economic, and social factors.
- Existing research often overlooks the dynamic optimization of material collection logistics within recycling management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and present a dynamic decision model for optimizing recycling collection.
- To integrate this model into a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based Decision Support System (DSS).
- To evaluate the economic effectiveness of the optimized collection strategy through a case study.
Main Methods:
- A dynamic decision model was formulated using state variables (daily waste quantities per bin) and control variables (collection quantities and vehicle routes).
- The objective function was designed to minimize total costs minus benefits.
- The model was implemented within a GIS-based DSS and tested using a case study of the Cogoleto municipality.
Main Results:
- The optimized recycling collection strategy demonstrated a significant increase in net benefits.
- Net benefits achieved through the optimized model were approximately 2.5 times greater than those of the current collection policy.
- The case study validated the practical effectiveness of the proposed dynamic decision model.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic optimization of recycling collection routes and schedules offers substantial economic advantages.
- The developed GIS-based DSS provides an effective tool for improving waste management efficiency.
- Implementing optimized collection strategies is crucial for maximizing the economic benefits of recycling programs.
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