Optimal road design using genetic algorithm to improve biodiversity and risk of soil loss

Abstract

Roads have provided convenience to mankind, but much natural destruction occurs when roads are constructed adjacent to mountains. Route selection was based on a qualitative methodology of expert judgment, and the road was planned with the operator's objectives and minimum costs in the first place. In this study, we propose a new road route planning method that uses a quantitative and specific method using a genetic algorithm. By focusing on 'habitat destruction' and 'soil erosion due to cut soil', which are major problems caused by the construction of roads, the conflicting objectives of 'minimization of costs for users and builders' are combined and weighted for each purpose. Compared to the existing road, the proposed road could have an 85.52% increase in biodiversity conservation and a 4% improvement in soil loss stability. This model allows decision makers to efficiently generate scenarios by adjusting the weights of goals or substituting data.