A spatial approach for integrating GIS and fuzzy logic in multicriteria problem solving to support the definition of ideal areas for biorefinery deployment

Abstract

Energy generation through renewable sources has become necessary to reduce environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural residues are the raw material for creating bioproducts in the circular economy context. Thus, there is a need for a biorefinery in use these materials. However, the optimal geographic location of a biorefinery plant is still a worldwide problem, from the material reception and production flow must be considered. Therefore, this study aimed to create a multi-criteria model (13 environmental and economic criteria) integrating the Geographic Information System (GIS) with Fuzzy Logic to identify potential areas for the implementation of a biorefinery within the Administrative Region of Campinas (ARC). The model created was compared with two other models, the middle center and Boolean Logic. The results show that the GIS-FUZZY model presented a better result, when compared with the other models, quantitatively it achieved an increment of 2500 km2 of suitable areas for the implantation of the biorefining industry, and qualitatively classified the areas classified in “bad”, “good” and “great”. The relevant information obtained in the results was also the identification of criteria of greater importance and impact about the choice of location. The tool created made it possible to process a robust database with information about the ARC, these results show that this model an excellent tool for decision supporters and making it possible to use the methodology for other regions.