Renewal of the Inorganic Recycling System
Overview
As one of my earliest professional projects, I led the renewal of the inorganic recycling system at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile while working for the Sustainability Directorate. The project aimed to address and revamp the university's existing recycling system, which was experiencing significant operational issues.
Challenges
The initial challenge was dealing with a recycling system plagued by issues such as overflows at collection points, inefficient collection schemes, and operational inconsistencies in waste removal. My task was to determine the appropriate size for new recycling points, their optimal locations, and the most efficient collection routes.
Solutions
1. Gathered qualitative and quantitative data through expert interviews and on-site data collection.
2. Assessed the current system using Zafra-Mejía’s approach to evaluate recycling point requirements.
3. Applied the Analytic Hierarchy Process to determine recycling point locations.
4. Implemented optimal route algorithms using Python to enhance the efficiency of collection routes, reducing operational costs and improving overall system performance
Results
1. Developed a comprehensive proposal for a new recycling system for the San Joaquín Campus.
2. Provided detailed recommendations on the number, size, location, and collection routes of recycling points.
3. The university successfully implemented the new system based on the technical suggestions, resulting in a significant improvement in operational efficiency
4. Significantly improved operational efficiency through the new recycling system.
