Development of a knowledge-based system methodology for the design of solid waste disposal sites in arid and semiarid environments

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

The proposed KBSMM is based on climatic, environmental and ground data sets, characterised into source, pathway and target factors. The influence of these factors on the development of waste disposal sites in these environments are evaluated using an influence indicator system that is linked to the Class 1, 2 or 3 categories of waste disposal site designs that form the mandatory framework of the KBSMM. The development, application and potential use of the KBSMM, cover geotechnical engineering, engineering and environmental geology and general geological investigation methodologies. The KBSMM incorporates the concept of phasing by allowing logical and progressive data collection and evaluation from desk study to detailed site investigation, design, operation, monitoring, restoration and aftercare stages. The user can thus be advised, guided and assisted in planning and the implementation of effective data capturing and evaluation strategies for waste disposal site developments in arid and semiarid regions

The KBSMM has been developed and applied to thirteen-test sites located in different parts of the arid and semiarid environments of Namibia in the southwestern part of Africa. The results from this research project indicate that the proposed methodology is a reliable and cost-effective decision support tool that has potential for use by both waste disposal site developers and regulatory authorities in countries with arid and semiarid environments