A multi-objective fuzzy programming model for biofuel supply chain under a hybrid biorefinery system and carbon tax regulation

This study develops a mathematical model for a sustainable biofuel supply chain. A hybrid biorefinery system is implemented by combining the operations of a conventional biorefinery and a green biorefinery. A waste treatment facility is also adopted to process liquid and gaseous waste and convert it into electrical energy. Feedstock quality is also considered as a factor influencing the amount of biofuel production. In addition, uncertainty aspects are also accommodated in the model by using a fuzzy approach. This study also proposes a solution method that integrates the fuzzy method with a multi-objective model. The results show that the adoption of a hybrid biorefinery is proven to reduce the amount of emissions, thereby improving supply chain performance. In addition, the results also indicate the existence of two important parameters, namely carbon tax and demand, which have a significant influence on the overall system performance.