Optimizing Kean University's Sustainability Walk Map through Hamiltonian and Eulerian Circuits

Yohanna Giron

Co-Presenters: Alejandro Roca, Katherine Ramirez

College: Hennings College of Science Mathematics and Technology

Major: BS.COMPUTER/SCI

Faculty Research Mentor: Germia, Erell Fab

Abstract:

Adopting environmental sustainability practices and initiatives in higher education institutions can play a key role in the growth and development of students in terms of values and behaviors that contribute to minimizing harmful impacts in the environment. Contributions to environmental conservation are manifested in the development of a sustainable campus. Kean University has demonstrated this initiative through creating different sites that promote environment-friendly practices throughout the university. Visiting sustainability resources can benefit the university by integrating academic knowledge and sustainable practices, while extending this benefit with the surrounding community. The objective of this study is to find a method that optimizes the Campus Sustainability Walk by determining the most efficient route through modeling the paths around campus.In this research, we used two theoretical concepts: the Hamiltonian Circuit, which goal is to find the shortest possible route that visits each landmark, and the Eulerian Circuit, which traces every road of the walk exactly once. Both concepts return to the starting sustainability landmark. We present a suggested efficient route we call circuit that optimizes the visits to all sustainability places on campus. We also present discussions on the parameters that are being optimized using our suggested route. Finally, we discuss the implications of this route in enhancing sustainability education, campus engagement, and operational efficiency. Specifically, we propose an optimized circuit that reduces unnecessary backtracking or visiting sites more than once; thus, minimizing potential environmental impacts associated with campus tours and maintenance. Using the suggested circuit may also promote awareness of the university’s efforts for sustainability and foster environmentally conscious community in general.