A multi-objective multi-period mathematical model for an industrial symbiosis network based on the forest products industry

Abstract

The efficient use of natural resources and energy become a critical issue due to the increasing population and environmental pollution worldwide. Recently, industrial symbiosis as a way of better utilization of natural resources has gained popularity. The forest industry is one of the most critical sectors since wood is a valuable natural resource. In this study, we propose a theoretical industrial symbiosis network located in an eco-industrial park, which is hosting companies focused on forest industry such as pulp & paper producers, pellet plants, sawmill, fiberboard, and particleboard producers. The designed network also includes an organic fertilizer plant and a water treatment facility. To establish the network, life cycle assessment (LCA) method is utilized. Data obtained from LCA enables us to determine the amount and type of possible by-products, waste and energy that can be exchanged in this network. Next, the location of the plants in the park is determined using the Automated Layout DEsign Program (ALDEP) by considering the flows of by-products and waste between facilities. Finally, the economic and environmental benefits of stakeholders in the network are analyzed using the developed multi-objective multi-period mathematical model. The objectives of this model are to minimize the total production cost of the companies in the network and to minimize their CO2 emissions, simultaneously. Results reveal that in such an industrial symbiosis network in which the ultimate goal is cleaner production, the use of virgin resources will decrease while the economic benefits of companies in the network increase.