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In this paper, we explore the possibility of connecting decentralized biogas plants via a pipeline network to terminals that upgrade biogas into biomethane. We present a mixed-integer linear program that forms subnetworks of such plants, decides on suitable terminal locations, and establishes pipeline connections to maximize profit. We apply this model to a real-world scenario in Northern Germany. The results show a much higher total profit for the optimized network compared to the benchmark solutions where each plant upgrades biogas into biomethane on its own. Therefore, plants can increase their profitability by collaborating with other (neighboring) plants. However, the collaboration requires a fair profit-sharing model as network participation is not individually profitable for all plants, especially small ones. • We explore network designs for a profitable upgrading of biogas into biomethane. • We introduce a Mixed Integer Programming model to determine optimal plant networks. • A real-world application for biogas plants in Northern Germany is presented. • Results reveal higher profits for the networks compared to stand-alone upgrading. • Fair profit-sharing mechanisms are important for plant collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the issues of patenting the traditional knowledge of the San, an indigenous people of South Africa, making drugs and other products out of hoodia gordonii plants. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has agreed with the San people to share any potential sales of drugs out of the plant. The San have also signed a profit-sharing agreement with the South African Hoodia Growers Pty Ltd in February 2006. However, no products have yet been launched under the profit-sharing agreement but there are products made from hoodia plants that have been sold in Germany and Switzerland.