Sustainable production networks: A design methodology based on the cooperation among stakeholders

Abstract

This paper proposes an approach based on a systemic design methodology and the Multi-layer Enterprise Input-Output formalisation method to engage different stakeholders in a new production network to create value from waste and by-products. The proposed methodology supports the stakeholders' cooperation in the design and development phases to establish, in a bottom-up fashion, production networks based on mutual stakeholders’ trust and relevant innovation content, such as industrial symbioses. The systemic design approach focuses on the characteristics of the local communities and their know-how identifying current waste and potential alternatives to exploit them as raw materials. A novel hierarchical version of the Multi-layer Enterprise Input-Output formalisation method quantitatively supports the system design and the performance assessment. It increases data consistency, supports practitioners in system formalisation, and feeds a properly developed dashboard of KPIs to provide the stakeholders with systemic design information and system techno-economic-environmental performance. The methodology implementation is shown in a case study based on the regional project InnovaEcoFood, which analyses the technical feasibility of producing healthy products from wine press residue and rice bran. The case study shows that the methodology data structure is suitable for dynamic analyses to support decision-making, performance assessment, negotiation, and development activities. The methodology engages stakeholders in the design and development process, providing consistent techno-economic-environmental data through a shared platform. In particular, it is suitable for self-organising networks and models where stakeholders themselves engage partners to build and extend the network.