A new graphical approach for simultaneous targeting and design of a paper recycling network

Abstract

Rising demand for paper has resulted in increased number of trees being chopped around the world. The loss of forest lands due to rampant tree cutting has caused a steady increase in the earth's temperature, changed the weather pattern and ultimately threatened the world's ecosystems. One way to mitigate these problems is through efficient paper recycling. To ensure that maximum recycling is achieved, proper mixing of different types of paper of different fiber contents should be considered. This work presents a new generic graphical method for simultaneous targeting and designing of a maximum paper recycling network. The first step is to establish the maximum paper recycling target using a graphical approach called the source–sink composite curves. Next, source–sink allocation curve and network allocation diagram are constructed to design the maximum paper recovery network. The graphical tool allows a designer to graphically visualize, explore, evolve and systematically select the best paper recycling network. Application of the method in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia campus yields a new fresh fiber target of 1464 tons/year. This is a potential reduction in 43.7% fresh fiber and translates into an annual reduction in 38 622 chopped trees and a potential savings of up to 4.5 GWh of electricity and 30.1 × 103 m3 of water.