Fuzzy mathematical programming approach in the optimal design of an algal bioenergy park

Algal biofuels are considered to be the only biomass-based fuel capable of producing the global fuel demand in terms of land constraint. However, its sustainable production and commercialization have been criticized with respect to its environmental impact, energy requirement, and economic potential. Hence, a viable approach to address such a concern is through synergistic networks between multiple industries in an eco-industrial park framework. Applying the concept of industrial symbiosis (IS), it enables the collaborative exchange of by-products and energy surplus between companies leading to inter-industry benefits. An algal bioenergy park (ABP) is a special example of an eco-industrial park focusing on algal biofuel production. It consists of anchor tenants and support tenants. The former are industries which comprise the core companies of the ABP while the latter are the considered industries which may complement the core companies in the production of algal biofuels. To encourage mutual benefit between companies in the ABP, satisfaction of individual targets such as production level and profitability must be met. Thus, a fuzzy mathematical programming approach is proposed in this study for the optimal design of an ABP with multiple conflicting objectives. The results revealed that in considering the support tenants, the annual profit of the ABP increased by 220 % with a considerable amount of increase in the environmental emissions. The results of the study provide a rational basis for negotiations, signing contracts, and agreements between firms in an ABP. A hypothetical but realistic case study is presented to illustrate the developed model.