New green lean assessment framework for enhancing enterprise performance

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to present a framework for evaluating Green Lean (GL) maturity within organizations, focusing on the pharmaceutical sector in the Gulf region. It explores how combining Green and Lean practices can address sustainability challenges and enhance overall company performance. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was conducted to analyze the strengths and limitations of existing approaches for evaluating GL. The best-worst method (BWM) was employed as a framework for multi-criteria decision-making. The proposed tool was implemented in a pharmaceutical manufacturing company to validate its effectiveness. Findings The assessment model provides practical guidelines and operational conditions for organizations seeking to adopt GL practices. The study’s outcomes enable pharmaceutical companies to initiate GL strategies, contributing to sustainability and overall performance improvements. Research limitations/implications This study has both theoretical and practical implications. It has found out the most important lean and green tools to assess and enhance enterprise performance. Therefore, this finding will strengthen the knowledge of successful implementation of GL and will further enrich the existing literature in the context of pharmaceutical industries. Moreover, this finding will also help the decision-makers in preparing an effective plan for successful implementation of GL. Originality/value This research introduces an innovative framework tailored to the pharmaceutical sector in the Gulf region. It bridges the gap between theoretical approaches and practical applications, offering a structured methodology to support sustainable initiatives in Lean practices.