Integrating Lean Six Sigma into waste management evaluation to enhance supply chain productivity: A case study

Abstract

This study investigates how waste management performance at community-based 3R waste management facilities (CWMFs) can be improved to enhance environmental sustainability and supply chain productivity. As urban waste continues to increase, effective community-based systems are critical to reducing landfill dependency. The research, conducted at TPS3R DR Indonesia, employed Lean Six Sigma tools such as SIPOC (Supplier-Input-Process-Output-Customer), process flow mapping, and fishbone analysis, to identify inefficiencies and their root causes. The analysis revealed that waste management efficiency reached only 60%, leaving approximately 2,400 kg of waste unprocessed daily. Key bottlenecks were found in equipment maintenance, work methods, staff awareness, and monitoring systems. Implementing structured improvement approaches such as 5S, 5W1H, and standardized operating procedures (SOPs) could enhance recovery efficiency by up to 20%. These interventions not only reduce residual waste but also improve workflow consistency and environmental performance. The study’s scientific contribution lies in demonstrating the applicability of Lean Six Sigma within community-based waste systems, providing a replicable model for integrating process improvement methodologies into local sustainability practices.