MULTIPLE OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION MODELS IN STUDYING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF A FARM

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to study the sustainable development of agricultural production using the example of an average Polish farm. This study was performed using multiple objective optimization models. Based on statistical data, two models were developed. Model I described a farm involved in plant production, while model II discussed a farm combining plant and animal production. The objective functions for both of these models were related to farm income, agricultural production and the amount of soil organic matter. These objectives aimed at maintaining a balance – vital for sustainable development – between the economic, production and ecological objectives. The results of optimal solutions presented such a production structure that did not cause environmental degradation, provided the highest farm income possible under the given conditions, and ensured high standards of production both for the farmer’s own needs and for sale. The agricultural production structures in both the models differ slightly. Farm income gained in the animal farm is approx. 85% higher than that in the farm that only produces crops. In both the models, the application of sustainable production principles helped to achieve a positive soil organic matter balance.