On September 8th, 2025, the CALIMERO project held an interactive webinar dedicated to exploring Multi-Objective Optimization (MOO) and its application to complex decision-making in bio-based systems.
The session started by introducing participants to the concept of MOO, emphasizing how it enables decision-makers to optimize several objectives simultaneously—such as cost, performance, and environmental impact—rather than relying on a single metric. This perspective resonated strongly with the challenges faced in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), where multiple and sometimes conflicting factors need to be considered together.
Building on this foundation, the discussion delved into the theoretical principles of MOO. Concepts like Pareto optimality, dominance, and the notion of trade-offs were explained, showing how they provide a structured way to understand and evaluate different decision scenarios. Mathematical formulations were presented in an accessible way, helping participants see how these principles operate in practice.
Attention then turned to solution strategies. The webinar showcased both well-established approaches, such as weighted sums and goal programming, and modern techniques like evolutionary algorithms. Through visual examples and workflows, attendees gained insight into how these methods can be applied to optimize competing objectives and achieve balanced solutions.
A highlight of the webinar was the presentation of case studies from the CALIMERO project. These real examples demonstrated how MOO is being applied in practice to integrate LCA results with performance metrics and cost considerations. The case studies showed how MOO supports more informed and transparent decision-making, especially in scenarios with multiple constraints and objectives.
The session closed with a lively discussion, where participants reflected on the applicability of MOO to their own work and shared perspectives on how these methods could support innovation in sustainable, bio-based systems.
Overall, the webinar highlighted the transformative role of MOO in designing solutions that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also environmentally responsible, offering a roadmap for better decision-making in the bio-based economy.
