Integration of Lean Green and Sustainability in Manufacturing: A Review on Current State and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The literature presents a review of the current application of lean and green practices and highlights the context, barriers, drivers, tools, and critical success factors and tools for the integration of lean and green practices within the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) manufacturing industry. In addition, the current state, gaps in the existing literature, and future perspectives on the current challenges of the industry have been suggested for the integration of both paradigm and sustainability of the industry. Integration of lean-green provides means to addressing issues faced by manufacturing industries for improved competitiveness. This study demonstrates that the application of lean and green practice is critical to be identified and applied within the region through the analysis of research papers published in both operational and sustainability journals. The findings of this review indicate that the synergy of lean and green practices is an effective initiative for resolving the operational and sustainability challenges of the manufacturing industry within SSA. To achieve operational excellence and mitigate environmental concerns, industries must implement the right tools and consider the critical success factors. By applying appropriate tools and models, the SSA region can address the current challenges and achieve a reduction in cost significantly.