Modelling Solid Waste Generation and Treatment using Lefkovitch Matrix

Population projection models provide a vital tool for planning, not only in the provision of social services but also in various other fields such as conservation strategies for endangered plants and animal species. As the name implies, these models have traditionally been used in ecological and population studies. In this article, the Lefkovitch matrix is used to predict solid waste generation by linking population growth with solid waste generation. The results indicate gradual population growth results in gradual increase in solid waste generation rate. Variability analysis shows that survival rates of the first three groups have significant effect on the population growth rate and so solid waste generation rate.  The results are based on the solid waste characterisation and quantification study carried out in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.