Route Optimization of MSW Collection and Transport Using a GIS-Based Analysis on the Tourism Island

Abstract

The Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management on Si Chang Island is challenging in terms of its limited land resources, high cost of waste treatment, and seasonal fluctuations in waste volumes from tourists and shipping activities. There are sufficient waste bins available to cover MSW production on the island. The downside of the management is an inappropriate open dumping site that is prone to environmental pollution and health risk. However, resilience is shown in the implementation of an integrated approach of waste separation, composting, and incineration. This study developed a complete road network and applied a network analyst extension, which was useful in the area of optimization of MSW collection and transport. Two optimal routes were shown for MSW collection. Two vehicles were utilized to collect about 10 tons of MSW per day in two trips. A total travel distance for one-day transportation was 38.5 km. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission from vehicles during MSW collection and transport was 0.85 g/km, accounting for 119 t CO₂/yr.