Six Sigma Methodology for the Environment Sustainable Development

Abstract

The Six Sigma (6-σ) methodology, as it has evolved over the last two decades, provides a proven framework for problem solving and organizational leadership and enables leaders and practitioners to employ new ways of understanding and solving their sustainability problems. While business leaders now understand the importance of environmental sustainability to both profitability and customer satisfaction, few are able to translate good intentions into concrete, measurable improvement programs. Increasingly, these leaders are looking to their corps (Six Sigma experts) of Six Sigma “Master Black belts,” “Black belts,” and “Green belts” to lead and implement innovative programs that simultaneously reduce carbon emissions and provide large cost savings. In my experience, and that of many others, Six Sigma processes show a proven approach for businesses and organizations to improve their performance and that sustainability programs are in need of this operational approach and discipline. Six Sigma rigors will help a business leader to design a sustainable program for both short- and long-term value creations. The aim of this chapter is to show the importance of applying Six Sigma methodologies to multidisciplinary sustainability-related projects and how to implement it.