Exploring an Integrated Spatial Analysis Using a Sampling Survey Model to Accurately Estimate Waste in Mountainous Areas

Illegal dumping of waste in mountainous areas seriously threatens our environment. Estimating the volume of waste generated in mountainous areas is not as straightforward as calculating waste volumes in urban areas, which typically rely on population figures. Due to considerable variations in land use development across mountainous terrains, actual waste volumes can differ significantly, making accurate quantification challenging. This study focuses on the Chiayi region of Taiwan, aiming to establish an integrated spatial analysis using a sampling survey model of land use intensity to estimate waste generation in mountainous areas more precisely. This sampling survey model defines “high-intensity land use” based on the seven categories of land use identified in the current land use survey. The findings indicate that it is feasible to identify potential sites for waste generation in mountainous areas, with the volume of waste produced correlating to land area; larger areas tend to generate greater amounts of waste. Meishan Township exhibited the highest waste production in these mountainous areas at 68.78 metric tons daily, while Jhuzaki Township recorded the lowest at 20.58 metric tons daily. Furthermore, an analysis of various high-intensity land use types revealed that residential areas generated the most significant daily waste amount, totaling 78.2 metric tons, followed by recreational facilities, which produced 9.4 metric tons. This method assesses the fixed scale of solid waste in mountainous areas.