Sustainability lessons from natural processes: a common modeling framework

Abstract

Computer-assisted, engineer-designed and -controlled processes play an essential role in the solution of the continuing economical and ecological crises regarding resources and reservoirs. Unified process-modeling methodology makes possible computational model-based comparison of natural and human-built process architectures. From the similarities and differences revealed by common model architectures, we can learn effective and sustainable methods of design and operation. The application of sustainability lessons will be explained through the example of the recently developed agrifood process network modeling methodology. In our approach, the transparency of investigated networks is based on the unified, scalable, multiscale model of simplified dynamic mass balances. We shall illustrate that, in addition to tracing and tracking the methodology supports, it provides transparent analysis of any details such as dynamic simulation of the selected and case specific process components (individual animals, food ingredients, contaminants). Having compared the models of natural and agrifood processes, we concluded that one of the key elements of future sustainability is to prefer neighbourhood cooperation in the utilization of local resources, as is usual in natural processes. Accordingly, our project tends to develop an exemplary region for the agrifood sector. Keywords: natural and human-built processes, computer modeling, sustainable-specific features