The role of lean, Six Sigma, and lean Six Sigma in driving sustainability through a circular economy framework in agribusiness: a systematic literature review

Abstract

This study aims to identify different applications of Lean, Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and how they are used to support circular economy (CE) principles in agribusiness. It seeks to understand how the different applications contribute to sustainability within a CE framework. It also helps to bridge the theoretical and practical gaps between operational excellence and circular regenerative and sustainability approach systems in the agribusiness sector. This paper presents a systematic literature review using the PRISMA framework, analysing 36 peer-reviewed articles to examine how Lean, Six Sigma and LSS contribute to sustainability in agribusiness through CE principles. The ReSOLVE framework was used to evaluate the CE principles addressed across the various applications of Lean, Six Sigma and LSS. It is revealed that Lean and Six Sigma are often implemented as a combined approach, particularly in the agribusiness food processing sector. This approach supports the LSS principles of waste elimination and continuous improvement, which are the two most addressed in agribusiness. “Optimisation” is often considered as a key CE principle that helps agribusinesses to increase productivity, reduce waste and cost savings, whereas other principles “Loop”, “Share”, “Virtualisation” and “Regenerate” are less commonly observed. The review also highlights the alignment of Lean and Six Sigma practices with sustainability pillars, with the economic pillar receiving the most attention, with the aim of reducing emissions and promoting reuse and recovery. This study contributes to expanding the existing knowledge on the different applications of Lean, Six Sigma and LSS towards sustainability in agribusiness, and the inter-relationship between the applications, sustainability and CE in agribusiness. Further theoretical understanding of the utilisation of the ReSOLVE framework in measuring CE principles. It also offers insights to agribusinesses on the role that Lean Six Sigma and LSS play in the implementation of the CE principles to achieve sustainability. This paper offers new insights into how Lean and Six Sigma support the CE and sustainability in agribusiness and identifies strategic directions for future research.