Integrated planning for a multiproduct, multisite reforestation value chain: a Canadian case study

This paper addresses integrated supply and distribution planning for a multiproduct, multisite reforestation value chain (RVC) in a make-to-order context. The aim is to develop a tactical planning tool to determine the quantities of seedling species and sizes to order from nurseries to satisfy reforestation site needs while minimizing purchase and distribution costs. A mixed-integer linear programming model was developed and applied to the publicly managed RVC in the province of Quebec, Canada. This tool was also used to analyze scenarios considering the three pillars of sustainability: environmental (climate risk management to bolster resilience), social (fair production allocation), and economic (supply and distribution costs) aspects. This strategic analysis highlights the trade-offs between purely economic and more sustainable scenarios and discusses strategic deployment opportunities to improve the RVC. Ultimately, it serves as a powerful tool for efficiently allocating yearly seedling supply, minimizing costs, and promoting sustainable practices in reforestation planning which provides valuable insights for RVC managers.