Abstract

Much research on facility location-allocation has been based on the assumption of nearest distance or proximity to derive optimal locations for facilities, while neglecting users’ preference. In addressing this gap this study explores the impact of incorporating spatial behaviour into recycling location planning by comparing two models: the Huff and P-median model. Comparisons of both models were investigated through a case study of bring bank location planning in Portsmouth. The result from the analyses showed clear differences between the models in terms of locations selected, spatial access to selected locations, catchment areas of identified locations and proportion of demand allocated to each location. Further exploration of the differences, by varying the number of locations showed that average weighted distance and mean distances derived with the P-median model were comparatively lower than the Huff model. This finding indicates that ignoring users’ preference may result in an underestimation of mean and average weighted distance to bring bank locations.

The research also explored the survey data from questionnaires, the results of the survey showed variations in recycling preference in terms of products, age, and gender. According to the survey, products such shoes, bags and textiles were mainly recycled in charity shops despite the distance separating them from such locations. Respondents also expressed preferences in recycling products such as cans, organic food waste and plastic bottles in recycling bins at home. These findings are clear indications that the type of product to a large extent determines where products are recycled. In terms of gender, the results showed only a slight difference between male and female respondents: 40.7% of male respondents agreed that they take full responsibility in recycling compared to 38.7% of female respondents. In addition, respondents within the middle age bracket (35 -54 years) expressed more preference for recycling compared to other age groups. Overall, the findings from this research showed that neglecting spatial behavior or user preference could negatively impact on Bring Bank location decisions.

Additional Notes

Supervisor: Richard G. Healy

Course: Master of Philosophy - MPhil

Date Deposited: 2017-05-09

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis12875.html