GIS-Based Route Optimisation for Enhanced Municipal Solid Waste Collection Efficiency: Evidence from Ota Town, Ogun State, Nigeria

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of GIS-based route optimisation in improving the efficiency and sustainability of municipal solid waste (MSW) collection operations in Ota Town, Ogun State, Nigeria. Design/Methodology/Approach: The data sources utilised in this study included primary data obtained through observations, GPS mapping, and surveys, as well as secondary data from the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA). Over five months, 18 trips were mapped, with a total of seven trip sites: five residential areas and two highway areas. ArcGIS Pro Network Analyst and Dijkstra's algorithm were used to create efficient routes that account for travel distance and various operationally defined constraints. Research Limitation: The study was based on 18 mapped trips across seven selected collection routes within Ota Town and relied on available operational data, field observations, GPS mapping, and information obtained from drivers. Findings: Route optimisation reduced total travel distance and travel time by 19.0% and 19.5%, respectively, and reduced fuel consumption by 31.57 litres per day. This in turn resulted in an annual saving of ₦2.94 million ($2,101.95). The field survey and information obtained from the drivers revealed that traffic congestion, narrow streets, parked cars, roadworks, and suspended electrical lines affect route accessibility and operations. Practical Implication: The study demonstrates that GIS-based route optimisation provides a practical framework for improving municipal solid waste collection systems by reducing travel distance, travel time, fuel consumption, and operational costs. Social Implication: Improved efficiency in municipal solid waste collection can contribute to more sustainable urban environments, better service delivery, and reduced environmental impacts associated with waste collection operations in rapidly urbanising cities. Originality / Value: The study demonstrates that GIS-based route optimisation provides a practical and sustainable framework for improving municipal solid waste collection systems in rapidly urbanising cities.