Confirmatory factor analysis for the implementation of Green Lean Six Sigma (GLSS) in Malaysia's wastewater treatment industry

ABSTRACT This study investigates the critical enablers influencing the implementation of Green Lean Six Sigma (GLSS) in Malaysia's wastewater treatment industry. Through an extensive literature review and insights from the industry, 30 distinct enablers were identified and categorized based on their characteristics within wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) organizations, aimed at ensuring successful GLSS execution. Structural equation modelling was employed to validate the research model, utilizing data from 296 certified professionals in Malaysia. The analysis revealed five significant enablers, indicating moderate to high levels of GLSS adoption within the industry, with the ‘strategic’ and ‘resource’ enablers emerging as particularly influential factors. Subsequent confirmatory factor analysis further affirmed the validity and reliability of these enablers. Moreover, the findings demonstrated both convergent and discriminant validity, reinforcing the efficacy of these factors in measuring GLSS implementation in Malaysian WWTPs. The study highlights the critical importance of strategic planning and resource allocation while emphasizing the need to address cultural and environmental factors for successful GLSS adoption in the industry. However, enablers based on linkages, particularly those pertaining to supplier relationships and customer satisfaction, garnered the least consensus among respondents, indicating areas necessitating further attention and improvement.