| Solid waste management is an increasing problem, both because of rising waste generation and a declining supply of adequate disposal sites. To deal with the problem waste management methods aim at waste reduction and waste diversion, through increased recycling, composting, and incineration, and changes in consumer behavior.; The dissertation develops an integrated solid waste management (ISWM) model that extends existing models in several ways. First, it uses a more realistic formulation of cost functions allowing economies of scale in waste collection, facility development, and facility operation, but allowing diseconomies associated with separate collection of yard waste, recyclables and mixed waste. Second, the model adds flexibility and realism to facility management options, including the simultaneous use of several disposal facilities, each with its own locational advantages; the export of waste; and the closure and replacement of facilities over time. Third, it allows for the promotion of recycling and hence, the modification of consumer's propensity to recycle, and it permits these policies to be applied in a spatially differentiated way.; As an initial step, the dissertation develops an analytical model that uses control theory to solve for optimal waste management policies. The system operates in a single waste collection area, has a single disposal site, and waste is either recycled or deposited at the landfill site. The model is solved for different assumptions about cost, including economies of scale.; Based on these initial findings, ISWM is formulated as a mixed integer-programming model, using GAMS for implementation and solution. The model is calibrated to the Central Ohio Solid Waste Management District (the District) and solved under a variety of scenarios. The model is tested and sensitivity analysis is used to determine the impact of changes in disposal capacity, interest rate, and growth of waste generation on recycling policy and landfill life. The model is then applied to the investigation of two further issues.; First, the model is used to derive an aggregate cost of waste management, as a function of key variables such as the size of the system, population density, number of facility options, and recycling tastes.; Second, the model is used to derive policy advice for the State of Ohio and the Central Ohio Waste Authority (the Authority). (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
