Economic Justice in the Design of a Sugarcane-Derived Biofuel Supply Chain: A Fair Profit Distribution Approach

Background : In agricultural supply chains, unequal bargaining power often leads to economic inequality, particularly for farmers. The fair profit distribution (FPD) approach offers a solution by optimizing supply chain flows (materials, information, and money) to promote economic equity among members. However, our literature review highlights a gap in applying the FPD approach to the facility location-allocation problem in supply chain network design (SCND), particularly in sugarcane-derived biofuel supply chains. Methods : Consequently, we propose a multi-period optimization model based on FPD to design a sugarcane biofuel supply chain. The methodology involves four steps: constructing a conceptual model, developing a mathematical model, designing a solution strategy, and generating insights. This model considers both investment (crop development, biorefinery construction) and operational phases over a long-term planning horizon, focusing on farm location and crop allocation. Results : By comparing the FPD model to a traditional centralized planning supply chain (CSC) approach, we examine the impact of the planning horizon, number of farms, and sugarcane prices paid by biorefineries on financial performance. While the FPD model results in lower overall system profits, it fosters a fairer economic scenario for farmers. Conclusions : This study contributes to economic justice in supply chains and offers insights to promote fair trade among stakeholders.