Simultaneous Routing and Siting for Hazardous‐Waste Operations

Abstract

This paper presents a mathematical model for the optimal simultaneous siting and routing of hazardous‐waste transport, storage, and disposal operations. Siting hazardous‐waste disposal facilities and the subsequent routing of hazardous waste from multiple points of origin is a complex problem involving environmental engineering, economic, and safety issues. The model presented explicitly considers hazardous‐waste routing and operational costs in the facility siting process. The formulation presented represents a linear flow model driven by both cost and risk considerations. To demonstrate this model, an example using a hypothetical siting and transportation network for a 10‐month planning horizon is presented. In addition, a multiobjective formulation of the model is formulated and solved for incorporating risks associated with the transport, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. The model can be used to aid engineers and local and state agencies in the siting of hazardous‐waste facilities and in evaluating alternative routing and siting policies with respect to cost and risk.