Waste-to-Energy- Collaborative system dynamics modelling (WECos)

Models are increasingly used to support decision-making for complex socio-technical problems, yet challenges remain to embed the use of such models into current decision-making practices.  

When it comes to waste-to-energy (WtE), different modelling approaches have been used to support decision-making in an applied manner with municipal actors and regional industries both in Sweden and globally regarding the role of WtE. The most applied methods are Life-Cycle-Assessment (LCA), cost-benefit analysis (CBA) and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). These are relatively static, providing a snapshot of waste management systems, generally at high-levels of detail.  
 
The WECoS project takes a different approach, using system dynamics simulation modelling. We focus on the integration between the energy system, WtE operations and high-level policy goals such as increased material reuse and net-zero targets.  

A key advantage is the ability to turn the modelling snapshot of commonly applied methods, into a “film”, uncovering the behavior over time of key variables and cause effect mechanisms driving simulated outcomes. System dynamics is implemented within a visual, object-oriented environment, increasing transparency of model assumptions, allowing for the creation of a shared representation of the WtE system and encouraging direct input from actors with influence, interest or that are affected by decisions. From a practical perspective, we seek to make the model and results useful as well as usable for our partners. 

From a research perspective, we investigate two novel aspects: 

1) Testing new approaches to delivering model results by creating custom dashboards and evaluating their effectiveness as a shared negotiation tool. 

2) Investigation of how to integrate behavioural elements in the modelled WtE system through choice modelling (revealed preference & stated preference approaches

Read more here:  MESAMS website.