Optimizing Waste Treatment Center Locations: A Mathematical Modeling and Simulation Approach

Waste management is becoming increasingly important for developing countries due to its impact on the environment, health, and economy. Challenges in waste management are often attributed to inefficient collection systems and poorly planned installations. This underscores the need for strategic decisions, beginning with the optimal location of waste treatment centers, particularly in the context of rapidly expanding urban areas. This paper examines the placement of waste treatment centers in the city of Tlemcen, Algeria. It includes various types of centers and considers strategic and operational constraints. A mathematical model was developed to determine the optimal locations, and its feasibility was verified through simulations that introduced more realistic constraints. Key aspects include minimizing transportation costs, complying with regulations, and gaining social acceptance. The study highlights the importance of simulation in strategic planning and provides valuable insights for policymakers to improve waste management practices in developing countries.