Resilient food supply chain networks - A modeling approach at regional scale

In facing the uncertain challenges posed by climate change and environmental degra-

dation, as well as the unpredictable global impacts of pandemics and armed conflicts,

there is an evident need to fortify food supply systems with the resilience. This capacity is

needed to respond and recover from even unforeseen disruptions, thereby ensuring sus-

tainable food access for all. Quantifying the resilience of food supply systems is required

to identify vulnerabilities, allocate supply chain resources effectively, and monitor progress

in order to formulate effective policies and investment decisions for resilience-building.

Yet, a quantifiable assessment of food system resilience is a task full of complexity. Food

systems involve multiple actors, supply chain activities, and spatial and temporal intercon-

nections across distant countries. This complexity obscures their capacity to meet demand

despite disruptions. In this seminar, a food model is presented that allows

to understand the food system’s behavior during disruption events and evaluate its

resilience.

Ms. Bazan Santos is a Research Scientist at Siemens, specializing in the development of sustainable infrastructure models, also known as "digital twins". These models are designed to facilitate data-driven decision-making for a cost-optimal infrastructure investment. In her current role, she advises customers on developing roadmaps for city infrastructure, supporting national policymakers and industry energy managers and being an active member in the research community on this topic and actively contributing to the research community on this topic, driving decarbonization efforts across Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, and South America.

Prior to her current role, Ms. Bazan Santos worked in the future of automation department, where she developed sophisticated control algorithms for food supply chain networks to achieve a resilient supply, even in the face of disaster situations.

She holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and is a PhD Candidate in Electrical Engineering.