A Goal Programming Model to Design a Sustainable Microalgae Biofuel Supply Chain with Emerging on Technology Assessment

Biofuels, derived from biomass-based resources, have gained significant attention as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels due to their potential to reduce environmental pollution and address the limited supply of conventional energy sources. Among various biofuel sources, microalgae have emerged as a promising candidate owing to their cost-effectiveness and versatile applications. This study aims to develop a sustainable supply chain model for microalgae biofuel production by integrating novel technologies and goal programming. To achieve this, a robust mathematical model was designed, incorporating four key objectives: (1) maximizing profit, (2) minimizing environmental pollution and emissions, (3) maximizing supplier service levels, and (4) minimizing the transportation distance from suppliers to markets. The Ordinary Priority Approach (OPA) method was employed to weigh technological criteria and determine the coefficients of the mathematical model. The proposed model was solved using two approaches: the METRIC-LP method and the Bat Algorithm. A comparative analysis of the results revealed minimal differences between the two methods, with Sample 9 (large-scale) achieving the highest optimal value. This research provides a comprehensive framework for optimizing microalgae biofuel production by balancing economic, environmental, and logistical considerations, and it offers valuable insights for stakeholders in the renewable energy sector.