A novel methodology for the application of middle-out, model-based systems engineering techniques for city waste management systems development

A holistic approach to urban development is required to meet global sustainability goals; part of the challenge involves finding an effective response to the increasing volumes of solid waste being generated in cities. The European Commission has developed a thematic strategy, and issued directives, on the prevention and recycling of waste; The United Kingdom has introduced legislation in line with these, and is working to develop its own waste management strategies against a very complex background. This paper describes a novel methodology for the application of middle-out, model-based systems engineering techniques to help with this, using the city of Birmingham in the UK as an example. The methodology creates repeatable and objective models of existing waste management systems and links them to city management accounts, to provide a foundation for the design of new and improved systems and business models.