A multi-period location-routing model for waste-to-energy supply chain: A case study

Due to the importance of energy in human life as well as the global environmental conditions, societies aim to lower the use of fossil fuels and supply their energy needs using renewable resources such as wind, solar, and biomass instead. In this research, we investigate a bioenergy supply chain in which energy is generated from municipal solid waste (MSW) considering waste separation and various technologies that turn wastes to biofuels. In addition, a mixed integer linear programming model is developed to minimize cost of waste collection and transportation from MSW generation areas, cost of transportation of generated biofuels and installation cost of consumption points. The presented model also considers the effect of utilizing cross-dock centers on designing the network for collecting and transporting wastes from MSW generation areas to conversion centers. In addition to show the application and efficiency of the developed model, Khorasan Razavi province is regarded as the case problem to which the model is applied and the results are thoroughly analyzed.

Automated summary

In this research, a bioenergy supply chain is investigated, with a focus on generating energy from municipal solid waste (MSW) through waste separation and various technologies to convert waste to biofuels. A mixed integer linear programming model is developed to minimize costs of waste collection and transportation, biofuel transportation, and installation costs. The model also considers the impact of utilizing cross-dock centers on the network design. The case study of Khorasan Razavi province demonstrates the application and efficiency of the developed model.