Optimization of the sustainable food supply chain with integrative data envelopment analysis approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this study, the supply chain system of the food supply chain (FSC) is assessed. Initially, the operations of farmers are examined using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique. Then, locations of relatively efficient farmers are used as potential collection sites for the distribution at the downstream operations. Next, the Multi-Objective Optimization Model is proposed to examine location and distribution channels under the sustainability paradigm. That is, the economic criterion is primarily considered by focusing on minimizing the total supply cost. The social criterion is next deliberated by evaluating the equality aspect of farmers for the fair proportion of vegetable supply. Then, the environmental criterion is incorporated by assessing the CO2 emissions of food transportation activity. Additionally, a trade-off analysis is analyzed to investigate the conflicting behavior of model using the Non-Preemptive Programming method. The sensitivity analysis is further examined by varying the time-requirement parameter to verify the model functionalities. Finally, the regional case study in Thailand based on the food supply data is applied to validate the model. Given that farmers are distant from diverse locations, the results of our study can provide a strategic choice for key decision-makers in the FSC network under sustainability consideration.