Biomass for energy: A review on supply chain management models

The present study reviews the status of research on biomass supply chain modeling. Biomass has become increasingly important as a renewable alternative energy source. One of the most critical aspects associated with the use of biomass is its supply chain and all the elements that are part of it. Indeed, in order for the use of this type of energy resource to become viable, its supply chain, from collection and transport to storage and distribution, needs to be well structured and optimized. Modeling is a critical step in developing understanding that leads to improved supply chain efficiency. Thus far, investigations that utilize supply chain models have focused on assessing specific supply chain scenarios, usually with an objective of minimizing cost. Significant opportunity exists to improve and expand the modeling process to allow for efficient supply chain design and operation. During this article will be analyzed several models presented by recent research that approach different situations and scenarios. At the end it is shown that biomass for energy supply chain models must include the analysis of several different variables and include the main disadvantages of its use as well.