Business Process Optimization for a Greener Future: The Russian Experience in Operational Management

The relevance of this study is driven by the need to develop new mechanisms and tools aimed at improving the technological, resource, and economic efficiencies of industrial businesses while minimizing their negative environmental impacts and enhancing their environmental performances. Although such approaches as the theory of constraints, the concept of sustainable development, and principles of Best Available Techniques have garnered attention individually, their combined, interdisciplinary application to the streamlining of business processes in industry has not yet been fully explored. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the advisability of managing business processes based on the principles of resource efficiency enhancement by preventing irrational resource consumption, production losses, pollution and waste in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals. This article analyzes the current state of research business process optimization for a greener future. The proposed methodological approach is based on ranking business processes according to their levels of resource efficiency. Business process engineering and an evaluation of its outcomes in terms of resource efficiency were conducted using a case study of a building materials manufacturer in Northwest Russia. Various business management scenarios were developed to improve resource efficiency through process engineering initiatives. The findings of this study can inform the development of strategic approaches for building materials manufacturers as they transition toward sustainable development.