On the feasibility of using canals for waste collection in Amsterdam

A novel approach to waste collection in Amsterdam's historic Centrum district demonstrates that using the city's canals with tug boats and floating dumpsters is feasible and beneficial. This method could reduce noise, pollution, and congestion while maintaining or improving the quality of life for residents compared to current curbside collection methods. The study employed GIS tools and integer programming to optimize the number and location of collection points, ensuring that residents walk no farther than those in other districts. Additionally, it proposed a waste disposal schedule similar to the existing truck system, suggesting a viable solution to the challenges posed by Amsterdam's narrow, historic streets.

Zhang, S., Duarte, F., Guo, X., Johnsen, L., van de Ketterij, R., & Ratti, C. (2022). On the feasibility of using canals for waste collection in Amsterdam. Transactions in Urban Data, Science, and Technology, 1(1-2), 86–102. https://doi.org/10.1177/27541231221122615