Smart nudging for efficient routing through networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a control-based digital deposit scheme for recycling networks, optimizing throughput and decentralizing decision-making to improve efficiency in circular economy systems.

Contribution

It proposes a novel control framework with decentralized algorithms and feedback mechanisms for efficient digitalized deposit return schemes.

Findings

Decentralized algorithms prevent node congestion.

A feedback loop dynamically adjusts deposits.

Simulations show improved recycling throughput.

Abstract

In this paper, we formulate the design of efficient digitalised deposit return schemes as a control problem. We focus on the recycling of paper cups, though the proposed methodology applies more broadly to reverse logistics systems arising in circular economy R-strategies. Each item is assumed to carry a digital wallet through which monetary rewards are allocated to actors transferring the item across successive stages, incentivising completion of the recycling process. System efficiency is ensured by: (i) decentralised algorithms that avoid congestion at individual nodes; (ii) a decentralised AIMD-based algorithm that optimally splits the deposit across layers; and (iii) a feedback control loop that dynamically adjusts the deposit to achieve a desired throughput. The effectiveness of the framework is demonstrated through extensive simulations using realistic paper cup recycling data.