A mathematical model for collecting and distributing perishable products by considering costs minimisation and CO 2 emissions

This paper considers the problem of allocating vehicles to collect and distribute fruit to producer associations in Colombia. In particular, the problem seeks to determine the optimal allocation of vehicles for fruit collection minimising both total transportation costs and CO2 emissions. This problem has multiple objectives, and the well-known ε-constraint method has been used as solution technique for the proposed mathematical models. The efficiency of the former methodology has been tested by using a case study involving the distribution of blackberry (Rubus glaucus) by an association of producers in Cundinamarca Department, Colombia. In particular, we considered 12 different scenarios related to supply levels, route outsourcing, and collection frequency. The results show the efficiency of the proposed methodology in solving vehicle allocation problems related to collection and distribution. The case study reveals that, in general, collecting fruit three days/week yields lower costs and fewer emissions than performing collections four days/week. Furthermore, increased supply leads to greater differences between costs and emissions.