On Demand Waste Collection

Product Used: Directions API

Background

A waste collection company operates in a large metropolitan area that regularly hosts public events, such as concerts, sporting events, and festivals. These events lead to a sudden increase in waste accumulation, and local authorities require additional waste collection services to keep the area clean. However, local regulations impose strict limits on truck routes, weight restrictions on certain roads, and prohibit certain trucks, like those carrying hazardous materials, from using specific areas. The waste management company needs an efficient way to dynamically create routes that comply with these regulations and adapt to the increased demand without causing delays or disruptions in regular service.

Problem Statements

The waste collection company wants to overcome:

1. On Demand routing based on traffic conditions: Regular, predefined routes do not allow for flexible response to on-demand collections, creating inefficiencies and straining fleet resources.
2. Regulatory Constraints on Truck Routes: Local road regulations restrict heavy vehicles on certain streets, limit access time and restrict movement of hazardous cargo in some neighborhoods.
3. Operational Efficiency and Legal Compliance: Without an adaptable system, route planning becomes time-consuming, potentially leading to compliance risks and delayed collections.

Solution

NextBillion.ai Directions API helps the waste management company with identifying best routes on demand allowing the company to allocate only the necessary resources—such as additional trucks or staff—based on real-time needs, optimizing fleet utilization without compromising regular service.

Real-Time Directions and ETA

When an event or surge in demand occurs, the waste management company can request new routes on demand using NextBillion.ai Directions API. These routes are optimized for the real time traffic conditions minimizing service disruptions or delays.

Automatic Compliance with Local Regulations

The Directions API takes into account current regulations, such as time based restrictions, dimensions or weight restrictions and restricted access points for collection trucks.

Sample API request and response

Here is a complete JSON request that we built for adhoc waste collection from one point and disposal at another.

API Request

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curl --location 'https://api.nextbillion.io/directions/json?key=<your_api_key>&origin=34.189973,-118.934659&destination=34.17607718,-118.94539693&waypoints=34.18257163,-118.93813974&mode=truck&option=flexible&truck_size=213.36,213.36,413.36&truck_weight=6000'

API Response

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{
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    "status": "Ok",
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    "routes": "[...]"

In the response, we get the directions for the specified stop by utilizing only the truck-compliant routes. On-demand route generation with regulatory compliance provides waste collection companies the flexibility to handle sudden demand spikes while adhering to routing regulations. This approach minimizes delays, prevents fines, and optimizes resources for increased flexibility and responsiveness, making it essential for waste management in dynamic urban environments.