A globalized robust optimization method for sustainable humanitarian relief network design with uncertain scenario probabilities

Disorganized treatment of casualties and irrational distribution of medical supplies pose significant challenges to relief activities, and recent disasters have brought attention to the need for optimizing emergency humanitarian relief networks. This paper proposes a scenario-based multi-objective globalized robust optimization (GRO) model to provide casualty transport schemes and medical supplies distribution strategies. Three optimization objectives in the proposed model are to minimize costs, carbon emissions, and inventory. A case study is based on the earthquake in Kermanshah, Iran. First, the authors investigate the sensitivity of the proposed model regarding the safe parameter and budget. Second, some comparative experimental results demonstrate that the GRO model exhibits great robustness in terms of obtain optimal solution. Compared with the nominal model, it can withstand some fluctuations caused by uncertainty and significantly reduce the conservatism of the robust model. Furthermore, simulation testing verifies the reliability of the GRO method though inspecting the probability that the simulated samples make the optimized strategies invalid. Finally, some management implications are obtained. This study highlights the importance of the effective relief activities that can balance life, social, economic, and environmental aspects to enable rational responses to emergencies.

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  • English

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  • Accession Number: 01888603
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Jul 24 2023 4:38PM