Application of a genetic algorithm to policy planning: the case of solid waste

A genetic algorithm (GA) approach to solid-waste policy planning is introduced. The GA is implemented as part of the policy design phase of planning. An evaluative tool is then used for comparative analysis of proposed plans prior to final selection and implementation of a solid-waste policy by decisionmakers. The complex multidimensional nature of solid-waste systems suggests that the GA approach may be particularly useful for solid-waste policy planning because GAs have been shown to be robust search techniques for highly dimensional, multimodal problems.