SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SITE SELECTION BY USING GEOSPATIAL AND GEOTECHNICAL METHODS IN SHINSHICHO TOWN, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The rapid urbanization and population growth in Shinshicho led to an urgent need for effective solid waste disposal management strategies. The aim was to identify potential solid waste disposal sites that complied with environmental regulations. This study addressed this challenge by employing geospatial and geotechnical methodologies to identify an optimal solid waste disposal site that complied with environmental regulations. The geospatial analysis conducted in the study area revealed that the then-existing solid waste disposal site covered approximately 12.13% (3.267 km2) of unsuitable land, 64.07% (17.253 km2) of moderately suitable land, and 23.79% (6.408 km2) of highly suitable land. This information provided a valuable understanding of the limitations of the previous waste disposal site. Concurrently, geotechnical investigations were carried out to assess the engineering soil properties of the highly suitable sites identified through geospatial analysis. Various geotechnical properties were examined, including sieve analysis, Atterberg limits, specific gravity, compaction, and permeability. The results of the geotechnical investigations indicated significant variations in the geotechnical properties among the sample points. The fine percentages ranged from 86.54% to 89.29%, liquid limits ranged from 42.56% to 53.18%, plastic limits ranged from 17.911% to 34.185%, specific gravity ranged from 2.60 to 2.7, maximum dry density (MDD) ranged from 1.375 to 1.555 g/cm3, optimum moisture content (OMC) ranged from 22% to 30%, and permeability ranged from 1.1x10−10m/s to 1.19x10−10m/s.The integration of geospatial and geotechnical methods provided valuable insights for solid waste disposal management practices. The outcomes of this research contributed to the broader discourse on responsible urban development in rapidly expanding regions. By identifying suitable sites and understanding the geotechnical properties of the soil, decision-makers, and urban planners were able to make informed choices regarding solid waste management, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and promoting sustainable urban development. In conclusion, this study presented a comprehensive approach that addressed the pressing need for effective solid waste disposal management in Shinshicho town. The combination of geospatial and geotechnical methodologies offered valuable insights for decision-making and contributed to responsible urban development practices.