AD ALTA
JOURNAL OF INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH
accurate assessment of the biomass supply chain by including
specific factors that could prolong the supply chain. Therefore,
biomass processing quantities and raw material supply must be
modeled at least several months ahead. Having a consistent
supply chain planning mechanism would make it possible to
ensure the continuous supply of required amount of biomass at a
similar price range.
2 Theoretical background
2.1 Logistics Systems in Different Clusters
The logistics system is based on the type of business and the
type and quantity of products transported. It is an important
measure ensuring smooth functioning of the business. State of
specific sector that involves both private and public entities has
to be taken into account when investigating logistics options.
Both sides are pursuing similar goals - to maximize benefits,
expand opportunities and business development. Cluster
management model (Fig. 1) is presented as a cluster-government
interaction. Based on this decision makers and cluster
participants strengthen their ties thereby persuading the
government to allow the development of their activities.
Figure 1. Cluster governance model
Source:
Ebbekink, M., Lagendijk, A., 2013
Thus, cluster activities are based on the promotion of innovation,
inclusion of educational institutions, and collaboration with
policymakers (Figure 1). The interaction of the above mentioned
entities allows the negotiation with the government in order to
legitimize its activities in a given region. Under this model,
cluster policy and public policy need to be more closely linked
and based on co-operation. It would be possible to achieve a
positive effect that would be benefit both the business subjects
and the society. Presence of civil entrepreneurs is another
important aspect. They are one of the main cluster activity
catalysts, as theyenable the development of new ideas and the
ability to convince those dubious public institutions. The
interaction between business and government members can
extract relevant social and environmental solutions. If this model
is applicable in a biomass cluster, then from a government
perspective, consumers are being targeted to help them pay the
lowest price for energy. From the point of view of business, the
objective is to get the market operating conditions in order to
earn profit. Biomass users operating on the market should seek
maximum efficiency, they will only be able to compete on the
market and persuade the government to allow them to operate.
In simple companies entrepreneurship is determined by the
characteristics of the leader; in planning companies it is defined
by explicit and product-market strategies; while in organic
companies is is defined by a function of their environment and
structure (
Gaweł, A., Jankowska, B., 2012). An entrepreneurial
company is characterized by three dimensions: pioneering
(proactiveness), innovation and risk taking. Such businessmen
help the cluster to grow and increase its competitiveness.
Renewable energy will not only address the limitations
associated with current energy consumption patterns and provide
much needed modernization of the energy sector, but will also
promote sustainable development objectives (Kaygusuz K.,
2007). Constant pursuit of efficiency and the application of
innovations are key factors ensuring smooth functioning of the
biomass energy sector.
Logistics system should be perceived as a wider structure with
essential elements inherent for private business entities. It allows
them to achieve full operational performance, including pre-
production and post-production processes. In reality, logistics
system includes not only the logistics of production, marketing
and distribution, but also procurement logistics. This allows
creating just-in-time operational procedures where purchases,
production and sales are synchronized (Figure 2). Procurement
logistics is important in terms of ensuring continuous operation
and avoiding situations where user needs cannot be met.
Figure 2. Main chains of the logistics system
Source: created by authors
Studies show that marketing or distribution logistics can be seen
as an entirety of logistics functions and goals that affects the
distribution of goods. Distribution logistics includes activities
related to the supply of services and goods from the production
warehouse to the outlet market. Production logistics is also a
combination of logistic functions and goals that ensure
continuous production, including activities related to the
movement of materials and raw materials at all stages of the
production process, as well as interim storage until the finished
product reaches the warehouse. Supply logistics ensures timely
provision of material resources to the company, as well as
inventory management, supplier selection, reduction of logistics
related risks (due to non-compliance with supply parameters).
Logistics systems can also be seen from a generalized
perspective taking into account the prevailing environment. It
can also be applied to a separate business branch. Usually
logistics systems are valued based on the prevailing relationship
between the business and the end user. This is considered as
macro-level logistics. Macro-level logistics includes direct,
intermediary and flexible logistics systems (Figure 3). They are
relevant for businesses of different sizes and sectors that operate
in both production and in service sectors. Logistics systems may
have exceptions however these are currently universally
accepted types of systems.
Direct logistics system (A) is a system in which the flow of
material goods moves directly from producers to consumers. In
this case there is no intermediary structure. This type of system
is most common in small and medium-sized businesses that do
not have a large storage capacity. In this case it is easier for them
to deal with individual manufacturers. It allows developing
direct contact with those subjects ensuring continuous supply of
goods. This system can function smoothly only if small
quantities of goods is delivered to customers because
communication with different manufacturers can deprive the
consumer of a significant proportion of time and human
resources.
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