Integration of lean and green supply chain - Impact on manufacturing firms in improving environmental efficiencies

Abstract

An integrated approach to reducing environmental waste and increasing productivity is required in all industries. Although lean manufacturing is a resolutely recognized approach to maximizing the productivity, the methodical studies aimed at the integration of lean and green supply chain in environmental benefits is still relatively insufficient. The objective of this paper is to explore the capabilities of lean supply chain in green technology and environmental performance. This paper analyses the lean supply chain tools based on the data related to the industries using lean manufacturing principles. Investigation of the environmental performance of lean supply chain is done with environmental waste reduction as the key performance indicator. This paper has identified fifteen lean tools that help in greening the supply chain and effectively integrate lean and green supply chain in increasing productivity and improving environmental efficiencies.