Optimization of best management practices to control runoff water quality in an urban watershed using a novel framework of embedding- response surface model

Best Management Practices (BMPs) are measures implemented to reduce urban runoff volume and pollution load. Determination of a cost-effective selection of BMP combinations is a challenge. In this study, an optimization model was developed to determine the optimal number, location, and type of BMPs with minimum cost and pollution load in the Majidieh catchment in Tehran, Iran. A novel framework was proposed combining the embedding technique with Response Surface Method (RSM) called “Em-RSM” in the form of a simulation–optimization (S/O) model. First, the storm water management model)SWMM(as the simulation model was linearized, and the linear programming results were used as the initial population of the genetic algorithm (GA). Then, the linearized model along with the SWMM model were alternatively used as the fitness function in the GA evolution process to increase the model run speed and results' accuracy. The results showed that the permeable pavement and infiltration trench were more effective than other BMPs because of the physical and local characteristics of the study area. It was demonstrated that the proposed model makes a considerable reduction in the model run time with acceptable accuracy in obtaining the compromise solution of the Pareto front. The proposed framework proved its effectiveness in the solution of GA-based S/O problems. It can also be applied in other case studies or optimization problems by replacing and simplifying the behavior of the simulation model in the optimization procedure.