Optimal location of a textile waste transfer plant for efficient and sustainable management

Abstract

With the increase in population and the growing consumption that this entails, the generation of textile waste has become an increasingly difficult problem. The final disposal of a high percentage of this waste in landfills, although considered an improvement compared to open burning or disposal in uncontrolled dumps, actually presents serious environmental, social and economic consequences that require urgent attention. Reducing the amount of textile waste sent to these facilities requires the implementation of comprehensive strategies that contemplate the recycling, reuse and valorization of these materials. To address this problem, this work proposes a strategic solution: the optimal location of a textile waste transfer plant to centralize the management of this waste, improving its handling, processing and valorization. To do this, a mathematical model is developed that allows identifying the most suitable location for this plant, minimizing transportation costs and maximizing the efficiency of the system.