Social Impact in the Optimization of Logistics Chains for Waste-Derived Biofuels: Comparison between Mono- and Multi-Objective Approaches in Colombia
Simón Herrera Ramírez, Juan David Parra Cantor, Laura Andrea Carmona Morales, Raúl Valencia, Carlos A. Bustamante, Whady F. Flórez Escobar, Hader V. Martínez Tejada, Oscar Vasco-Echeverri Optimization Research Group / Grupo GINUMA, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Mechanical Engineering Program, Medellín, Colombia 2026-06-27

Abstract

The transition toward a sustainable energy matrix and the efficient management of municipal solid waste (MSW) represent critical challenges in Colombia. This study optimizes the supply chain for the production of Refuse‑Derived Fuel (RDF) by comparing mono‑objective and multi‑objective approaches. A linear programming model is formulated that integrates four non‑commensurable objective functions: maximization of material flow, maximization of job creation (social impact), minimization of operating costs, and minimization of CO2 emissions. Using real data from the main Colombian cities (Bogotá, Medellín, Cali) and two RDF production centers (Ibagué and Maceo), the ε‑constraint method is applied to generate the Pareto front. The results show that the multi‑objective approach allows a 15 % increase in job creation with only a 4 % increase in operating costs compared to the purely economic solution. The sensitivity analysis reveals that increasing the proportion of plastics in the mixture raises costs and emissions, while jobs remain resilient. This work constitutes the first approach to the design of RDF supply chains in Colombia under comprehensive sustainability criteria, providing decision‑makers with a set of efficient solutions.

Key words: Multi‑objective optimization, RDF, supply chain, social impact, ε‑constraint.

References

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