Optimal supply chain design of biodiesel production using black soldier fly larvae oil as feedstock

Abstract

ABSTRACT Biodiesel is one of the most produced biofuels worldwide; however, all existing plants base their production on vegetable or animal oils. These raw materials, whose availability is limited due to their origin, might harm food safety. In this way, alternatives such as oils from insects have been attractive. Specifically, black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) can consume various organic residues and bio-transform them into lipids, representing around 40% of the total weight of BSFL. Hence, this work addresses the optimal supply chain (SC) design for biodiesel production, using BSFL’s oil as feedstock to substitute conventional diesel with a B20 blend. This was achieved by developing and optimizing a mathematical model. Results indicate that it is possible to satisfy 15.09% of the Mexican diesel demand with a B20 blend. Additionally, CO2 emissions have decreased by 58% compared to the current situation, in which only conventional diesel is used. Moreover 38,967,708 tons of organic residues are valorized, leading to the implantation of a sustainable biodiesel industry.