A bi-level multi-objective optimization approach for carbon policy formulation towards food waste resource treatment from environmental, energy and economic perspectives

Excessive food waste contributes to the greenhouse effect. Although low-carbon technology has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and generate renewable energy, the high costs may deter the adoption. To promote low-carbon food waste treatment, local authorities could develop carbon reduction policies targeted at the food waste treatment industry, which could lead to a game between local authorities and food waste treatment enterprises. Hence, a bi-level multi-objective optimization model is put forward to balance the decisions of local authorities and those of food waste treatment enterprises. Enterprises can choose which carbon reduction policies to implement, and local authorities determine the intensity of specific policies. After testing this model on Shenzhen’s food waste treatment system, the model’s validity and feasibility were confirmed. It was discovered that by identifying suitable carbon reduction policies, the model can help enterprises achieve more than 50 % carbon reduction. Moreover, different enterprises may choose different carbon reduction policies to implement. Optimal food waste disposal arrangements need flexible adjustments. The constructed model can serve as a decision-making tool for city managers to reduce carbon emissions in food waste treatment.