Optimization of Waste Collection System Using Underground Containers with Source Separation Plan (Case Study: District 3 of Yazd Municipality, Iran)

Introduction: Optimization of waste collection systems can reduce waste management costs. In this study, optimization of the waste collection system of district 3 of Yazd municipality of Iran has been investigated using underground containers. Materials and Methods: In this research, after collecting information and performing field inspections, the statistical and raster information obtained from Yazd municipality and Yazd waste management organization were introduced into ArcGIS software. Furthermore, based on the obtained information, including population density layer and last population estimation in district 3, per capita waste production, and then considering all the information obtained using the GIS software, containers were located with a source separation approach. Results: The results of this study indicate that installation of underground containers for wet waste, in addition to improving the health and environmental status, can decrease the frequency of urban waste collection from 3 days to 2 days a week. Moreover, creation of temporary storage sites for dry wastes can also significantly decrease the route of collection, due to the reduction of the collection route from 368,000 to 180,000 meters in the new routing system. Furthermore, it can reduce the economic cost, including reducing fuel costs by 50% per day, manpower by 33%, and reduce maintenance costs. Conclusion: Optimization of urban waste collection system using underground containers for wet waste and the use of temporary stations of dry wastes, considering the significant economic, environmental and aesthetic advantages can be considered as an appropriate option in Iranian cities especially in areas with hot and humid weather such as Yazd.