Performance optimization of fourth-generation biorefinery departments: A novel mixed macroergonomics-sustainability framework

Abstract

Today, crises caused by environmental pollution such as climate change have emerged as fundamental challenges with far-reaching and sometimes irreparable effects on the environment. Fourth-generation biorefineries (FGBs) have been recognized as a primary solution to these crises. There is a need to establish a comprehensive framework that can evaluate and enhance the performance of various departments in FGBs. This study introduces an integrated framework for evaluating and enhancing the performance of FGB departments, focusing on macroergonomics and sustainability indicators. First, the relative importance of each indicator was calculated using the best-worst method. The necessary data were collected using a validated questionnaire, and factor analysis was employed to assess its validity. The efficiency score of each decision-making unit was then computed using data envelopment analysis (DEA). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to validate the DEA results. In the next step, the positive or negative effects of each indicator on the performance of the refinery departments were investigated using sensitivity analysis and statistical tests such as Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Levene, paired t-test, and Wilcoxon. The results of sensitivity analysis indicated that the FGB had the highest performance in reducing injury rates but the lowest in reducing lost workdays caused by injuries or illnesses. In addition, appropriate strategies were developed using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis to improve the performance of the refinery's departments. To the best of our knowledge, this research is the first attempt to assess the qualitative and quantitative performance of FGB departments on the basis of sustainability and macroergonomics indicators.