Systems Analysis of Refuse Disposal Alternatives

This article examines the formulation and analysis of alternative methods of recovering resources from the solid waste system of a particular military base. Five alternative systems are described, and the methodology developed to evaluate and compare the alternatives is presented. Evaluation was based on discounted annual costs as well as intangible factors. An extensive sensitivity analysis was conducted. Results of the analysis are given, including the conclusion that a partial source segregation plan is the most cost-effective system for the base. The procedures and methodology described should be of use to researchers analyzing resource recovery options for private or public organizations. In addition, some of the results reported, such as cost models and waste composition data, may be directly transferable to organizations conducting similar studies.