Comprehensive crop allocation model: Balancing profitability, environmental impact, and occupational health

Abstract

This paper presents an innovative mathematical optimization model, formulated as a Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Programming problem, for sustainable crop allocation across a set of available parcels. The model not only maximizes the economic benefits derived from crop sales but also optimizes the use of water and fertilizers, minimizes environmental impact, and assesses health and safety risks to workers using the Process Route Health Index, adapted from the chemical industry. The adaptation methodology is designed and presented step-by-step to highlight its applicability and relevance in the agricultural context. The integration of mass networks for the use, reuse, and regeneration of water and fertilizers allows for significant optimization of resources, reducing both operating costs and environmental waste. A case study involving the allocation of four crops across 12 parcels over three sowing cycles demonstrates the model's applicability under different scenarios, evaluating profits, Eco-indicator 95, water footprint, and occupational health. The results obtained demonstrate the model's ability to balance economic benefits with environmental sustainability and labor safety.