Determination of waste generation, composition and optimized collection route for university of Abuja main campus using “MyRouteOnline” software

Abstract

Routing is one of the main components of solid waste management. Optimization of collection route reduces travel distance and time which could reduce disposal cost. In this research, an optimal waste collection route in University of Abuja main campus was determined using “myrouteonline” software. Information on waste generation and nature of waste disposal practices were determined from daily waste collections measurement by volunteers, questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and discussion with various stakeholders. One hundred and fifty-five (155) questionnaires were administered. The results show that an average daily quantity of waste generated per person was 0.59kg/day while a range of 3.44 to 6.04kg/day was recorded for each Faculty. The composition of the solid waste by respondents are: 31.6% paper, 27.1% combination of the solid waste, 16.1% food waste, 14.2% plastics, 3.2% e-waste, 2.6% metals, 2.6% cloth, 1.3% glass, and 1.3% wood. The result also shows a reduction in travel distance from 24.38 km to 12.44 km representing 48.78% savings and travel time from 83mins to 43mins representing 52.44% savings. This reduction implies a low energy cost of waste collection truck. The results provide insight into the types and quantity of waste generated within University of Abuja campus as well as how efficiency can be improved during collocation using the optimized route.