Application of value stream map for minimization of wastes in the supply chain

: a case study on the lithium industry

Abstract

Lean manufacturing plays a significant role in eliminating waste (activities/resources) in a manufacturing organization. Value stream mapping is one of the critical tools in lean manufacturing that will help to identify wastes in materials and information flow in a specific product family. The study aims to address gaps in existing literature by examining the application of VSM in the context of lithium extraction and processing, with a specific focus on European and Portuguese perspectives. By investigating the challenges and opportunities in the lithium supply chain, with a specific focus on waste reduction and strategic supplier selection, utilizing VSM methodology, the study analyzes the current state of the supply chain, particularly examining transportation inefficiencies between mining and refining stages, where findings reveal significant opportunities for improving efficiency and sustainability through targeted interventions. The methodologies are used to help identify companies in the lithium industry, analyze European countries' use of lithium in battery production, evaluate nearshore strategies, and assess the ecological impact of lithium mining. Implications of this research feature the critical importance of waste reduction in achieving sustainability goals within the lithium supply chain. In this matter, recommendations for future research and practice include strategies for optimizing shipping routes, enhancing logistical processes, and leveraging strategic supplier partnerships to minimize environmental impact and enhance overall supply chain resilience.

Date of Award	19 Jul 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Aydin Teymourifar (Supervisor)