Optimal management of waste loading into a river system with nonpoint source pollutants

Abstract

An optimization model, fit for practical use, to allocate COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand)-based wasteload into a river system among outfalls is developed within the framework of robust optimization (RO). Nonpoint source COD loading, estimated based on the unit loading factor to be assumed known, is treated as uncontrollable one. The total amount of expected allowable COD load from point sources is then, under all possible scenarios of uncertain input information, maximized while satisfying the constraints on in-stream COD and DO (Dissolved Oxygen) transport, effluent standards and river water quality standards. Advantage of the ∈-RO model using the ∈-constraint method for optimization practice is brought to light from theoretical and practical aspects, in comparison with the conventional RO model resorting to the Lagrangian method. Solving a simple hypothetical example problem, it is demonstrated that the model developed is competent for successfully generating noninferior and robust solutions on optimal COD load allocation.