Using the GIS application and multi-criteria analysis to determine to optimal site for solid waste landfill in Tal Afar district

Section: Research Article
Issue
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2025): Journal of Rafidain Environment July 2025
Published
Oct 6, 2025
Pages
31-48

Abstract

Solid waste management plays a vital role in enhancing public health and protecting the environment by minimizing ecological hazards and social impacts. This study aims to determine optimal landfill sites in the Tal Afar district using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) techniques. Six key factors were analyzed: land cover, road network, soil type, slope, elevation, and wind direction. Each factor was weighted using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and spatial analysis was performed using a weighted overlay in a GIS environment. The resulting suitability maps identified highly appropriate areas for landfill development, primarily located in the southwestern part of the Tal Afar district, characterized by low population density, moderate slope, and road accessibility. The study concludes that integrating GIS and MCDM provides a reliable framework for sustainable site selection. It also recommends ongoing environmental monitoring and long-term waste management planning.

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Authors

Baraa Y. Ishaq
Ayad F. Qasim
Raid M. Faisal

Identifiers

https://doi.org/10.33899/jre.v3i2.49932
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