DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF A SUSTAINABLE MULTI-OBJECTIVE DISTRIBUTION NETWORK USING SIMULATION-BASED OPTIMISATION

摘要

This paper examines the distribution network for a manufacturing business looking at aspects of sustainability including economic, environmental and social considerations. The problem is initially approached mathematically, then applied experimentally using a specialist software, Orion-pi. A real life business, Rettig ICC, is used as a case study to show how the theory could be applied to a practical example and would provide financial savings, reduced carbon emissions and lay the groundwork for a more ethical business strategy. The results show it will be a financially and environmentally positive move to decrease the current activity at Birtley and operate an additional smaller distribution centre at Coventry.