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Multi-Objective Collaborative Allocation Strategy of Local Emergency Supplies Under Large-Scale Disasters

Author

Listed:
  • Yi Zhang

    (School of Intelligent Transportation, Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang 471934, China)

  • Yafei Li

    (School of Management, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China)

Abstract

In the initial phase of large-scale disasters, delayed external relief supplies make scientific local emergency supply allocation crucial—not only for reducing casualties, but also for advancing sustainable disaster response, a key link in enhancing post-disaster resilience. Existing research mostly focuses on cross-regional material allocation while overlooking local challenges like low resource efficiency and unbalanced supply–demand dynamics. To tackle these limitations in the existing research, this study develops a multi-objective collaborative local emergency supply allocation model centered on sustainability. It uses an improved TOPSIS method to quantify the urgency of needs in disaster-stricken areas, prioritizing material distribution to vulnerable regions in line with the principle of “no vulnerable area left neglected in relief efforts”. The study also integrates the entropy weight method and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to ensure rational indicator weighting, and designs a double-layer encoded genetic algorithm to obtain optimal allocation schemes that balance efficiency, fairness, and sustainability. Validated using the 2013 Ya’an Earthquake case study, the model outperforms traditional local allocation approaches: it boosts resource utilization efficiency by reducing material shortage rates, accelerates post-disaster recovery by shortening response times, and improves allocation fairness. Findings provide empirical support for the establishment of “local–external” collaborative rescue systems and sustainable disaster risk reduction frameworks. Empirical calculations using case-specific data and real-world estimates verify the model’s practical applicability: it meets the requirements for fair and rapid allocation needs, aligns with the goals of sustainable disaster management, and lowers the carbon footprint of relief operations by lessening reliance on long-distance external materials.

Suggested Citation

  • Yi Zhang & Yafei Li, 2026. "Multi-Objective Collaborative Allocation Strategy of Local Emergency Supplies Under Large-Scale Disasters," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-34, January.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:2:p:573-:d:1834302
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