Integrated analysis of recycling and incineration programs by goal programming techniques

The combustion temperature control for the potential emissions of trace organic compounds during incineration and the possible decrease of heat values by recycling of municipal solid waste (MSW) have created a mutually influenced relationship in the integrated solid waste management systems. This paper proposes a goal programming model to evaluate the compatibility issues between MSW recycling and incineration. Based on several management planning scenarios, the new management disciplines to be mastered by this model exists for both public and private agencies responsible for solid waste collection, recycling, and treatment tasks. From engineering and management perspectives, it shows that such linkage is feasible and essential to facilitate the decision makers for achieving the goals of economic efficiency and environmental protection simultaneously in a multi-purpose solid waste management system. (C) 1997 ISWA.