Environmental and Economic Role of the Lean Production in Transition to Sustainable Development

Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI), 125319, 64 Leningradsky av., Moscow, Russia

Abstract

The concept of “lean production” today is one of the most effective strategic measures for the transition to sustainable development. It is aimed primarily at the initiation of resource-saving technologies at the micro level of production, and gradually takes a global character, turning from a tool of progressive organization of production into harmonization of an ever-expanding industry and environment. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of sustainable development policies that are currently being implemented in technologically advanced countries. However, the uneven economic development of the territories and the high level of differentiation in the technological and socio-economic development of different countries and regions necessitate the creation of new clusters of lean production based on the competitive advantages of the regions. The success of the implementation of sustainable development policies in any country depends largely on how effectively business leaders are aware of the need to invest in resource-saving technologies and use lean production mechanisms designed to reduce overspending of natural resources.