In a significant advancement for solid waste management, researchers in Iraq have leveraged geospatial technology to identify optimal sites for municipal solid waste landfills in the Ranya District. The study, led by Shwana Manguri from the Civil Engineering Department at the University of Raparin, employs a combination of Geographic Information System (GIS) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodologies to tackle the pressing issue of landfill siting, which is critical for sustainable waste management practices.
As urban centers grow and waste generation increases, the need for effective landfill locations becomes paramount. The research meticulously considered seventeen criteria, including proximity to water bodies, geological stability, and groundwater depth, among others. “Groundwater depth emerged as a crucial factor in determining the best landfill site,” Manguri noted, emphasizing the importance of protecting vital water resources in the selection process.
The findings reveal that only about 0.34% of the study area, approximately 2,396,000 square meters, is deemed suitable for landfill development. This limited availability underscores the challenges municipalities face in finding appropriate waste disposal sites, particularly in regions where environmental considerations are paramount. The study categorizes the identified sites into varying levels of suitability—moderately suitable, suitable, and mostly suitable—providing a nuanced approach to site selection.
For the energy sector, this research holds commercial implications. Effective landfill management can lead to improved waste-to-energy conversion processes, which are increasingly vital as countries seek to transition to renewable energy sources. By optimizing landfill locations, municipalities can enhance operational efficiencies and reduce environmental risks, paving the way for sustainable energy generation from waste.
Manguri’s research not only contributes to local waste management strategies but also sets a precedent for other regions grappling with similar challenges. As the study is published in ‘Advances in Environmental Technology’, its findings could inspire broader applications of geospatial analysis in environmental planning and resource management.
For more information on the research and its implications, visit lead_author_affiliation.
