Use of environmental value stream mapping and environmental loss analysis in lean manufacturing work at Volvo

Green production systems requires efficient production and low use of resources such as
energy, material etc. To achieve this, there is a need for further development of
continuous improvement tools in the “lean and green” area. This work deals with
environmental value stream mapping (Environmental-VSM), which has been applied in
two case studies at Volvo Penta Vara and Volvo Construction Equipment Braås. In the
performed studies Environmental-VSM, as described by the US-Environmental Protection
Agency, has been extended by the introduction of a loss model to show environmental
losses. The combination of methods provides the user with hands-on tools supporting
strategic as well as operational management. Examples of practical improvement actions
that were found include reduction of energy use trough minimising idling losses and floor
space as well as reduced waste flow through lowered packaging material usage.