Evaluation of waste management options using rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix in Birjand, Iran

Abstract

Population growth and the corresponding production of more waste as well as considering the lack of appropriate municipal solid waste management strategies in recent years have confronted the city of Birjand with huge waste disposal problem. This study evaluated different waste management options in Birjand, including open dumping, sanitary landfill, composting and recycling. Environmental impact assessment of these options was performed using two methods: rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix (modified Leopold matrix). The rapid impact assessment matrix method provides fast and accurate ways of analysis and reanalysis of specified components. Iranian Leopold matrix chiefly is used for the reorganization of the project impacts in both the building and operation stages. Composting option, with final scores of − 0.5 and − 2.34, respectively, in rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold Matrix, had the least negative environmental impact. Also, as a result of both methods, open dumping had the most negative environmental impact. The result of sustainability determination for four alternatives showed that the composting, with S-Value equal 0.01 and − 0.162, respectively, in rapid impact assessment matrix and Iranian Leopold matrix, is more sustainable than the other options. Therefore, composting option was introduced as first priority and the most logical strategy for municipal solid waste management in Birjand. Unfortunately, open dumping is currently the most common method of waste management in this city.