Overview of the Solid Waste Optimization Framework and Illustrative Analyses 

While previous research has applied environmental life-cycle assessment (LCA) to solid waste management (SWM) using formal search techniques, existing models are either not readily generalizable and scalable, or optimize only a single time period and do not consider changes likely to affect SWM over time, such as new policy and technology innovation. The Solid Waste Optimization Life-cycle Framework (SWOLF) presents the first life cycle-based framework to optimize-over multiple time stages-the collection and treatment of all waste materials from curb to final disposal by minimizing cost and environmental impacts, while considering user-defined emissions, waste diversion constraints and future changes in energy and GHG prices. Specifically, the framework allows for the cost of energy and emissions to change over time in response to policy changes (e.g., cap and trade, carbon tax). The framework considers the use of existing SWM infrastructure as well as the deployment and utilization of new infrastructure. SWOLF was used to illustrate how a typical suburban U.S. city can proactively and sustainably adapt their SWM system over the next 30 years including potential changes in the energy system.