Climate Change Mitigation: Application of Management Production Philosophies for Energy Saving in Industrial Processes

Niñerola, Àngels; Ferrer-Rullan, Ramon; Vidal-Suñé, Antoni

Abstract:

Climate change is a fact. Global warming of the planet is a result of the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and the cause of serious sustainability issues. The objective of this article is to highlight the potential of the Six Sigma methodology to reduce energy consumption in the productive sphere, with consequential reductions in pollutant emissions. We present a systematic literature review that highlights the increasing interest from academics and practitioners in using quality management philosophies for addressing sustainability issues. From the analysis carried out, it is clear that Lean is being used in this regard but the potential of Six Sigma is not being exploited. Taking advantage of the best of both approaches (Lean Six Sigma) can contribute to reducing energy consumption in industrial processes and contribute to mitigating the impacts of those processes on climate change. Moreover, through keyword analysis, we found that the three dimensions of sustainability are currently gaining importance in the literature, when previously only the economic pillar was relevant. Finally, we raise some questions for reflection for academics but also for practitioners, as the problem is a global problem that should be faced by all the community.

Year:

2020

Type of Publication:

Article

Keywords:

Six Sigma; lean; operational excellence; process improvement; climate change; energy saving; sustainability; literature review

Journal:

Sustainability

Volume:

12

Number:

2

Pages:

717

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3390/su12020717