Page 325 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

18

MODEL DEVELOPMENT

AND INTEGRATION

This chapter discusses the integration of the environmental model. A computer program
was written based on the characterization analysis, significant variable analysis, and
performance parameter development. The program integrated the analysis into an environ-
mental model to characterize, quantify, and evaluate solid waste generation of U.S. busi-
nesses and government agencies. The program was written using Excel and Visual Basic.
Inputs to the program are the independent variables for the company to be analyzed

■ SIC code
■ Number of employees
■ Landfill disposal cost per ton
■ ISO 14001 certification

Output from the program is

■ Annual solid waste expected mean tonnage
■ Annual waste stream composition tonnages
■ Performance parameters

Figure 18.1 displays a diagram of the model flowchart, including data inputs, model
processes, and outputs. Benefits of the program include

■ Applicable to Internet systems
■ Discrete and confidential for U.S. businesses
■ Waste monitoring and control tool
■ Serves as an incentive for companies to increase recycling by calculating the potential
cost benefits from waste reduction

The integrated environmental model and subsequent programs were utilized to facili-
tate the validation process and to conduct the case studies discussed in the next chapter.

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