Using the Lean Approach for Improving Eco-Efficiency Performance: A Case Study for Plastic Reduction

In recent decades, there has been a growing awareness of reducing plastic consumption. Manufacturing companies are a major contributor to plastic consumption, during production. In the coming years, the transition to production models with less impact on the environment will be central for manufacturing companies. One possible solution, to address environmental sustainability needs, is through the development of a Lean approach. The Lean approach for improving eco-efficiency performance has been gaining increasing attention, from academia and companies. This article, through the analysis of a case study of an Italian company in the food sector, shows how the use of the Lean approach specifically the A3 tool, enabled the company to improve its eco-efficiency performance. In particular, the company was able to reduce plastic consumption in its production process by half by identifying and eliminating actions with no added value for the customer but responsible for plastic waste. At the final point of the study, a conclusion was done stating limitations and future research opportunities to expand the field of the work.