Curbside collection of recyclables I: Route time estimation model

Curbside collection of recyclable material can be expensive because the inherent costs of curbside collection are high, but also because amounts collected per residence are small compared to the total waste stream, and extra activity may be required, such as sorting. In this paper, a model is presented capable of estimating route time based on route and collection method characteristics. The time spent traveling over the route, between stops is estimated using the distance between stops. The time spent collecting materials is estimated using the distance walked by the collector(s) and the mass of material collected at each set-out. Time at stop signs and traffic lights is estimated using the average observed stop time. The model is tested for one and two-person collection methods used in the City of the Village, OK. It is capable of estimating route time within 10%, on average.