This master’s thesis uses Value Stream Mapping to audit the waste processes at a major manufacturing plant. After completing the picture of the waste types and processes, existing literature on waste and recycling were used to create recommendations.

Creating and then conducting my capstone thesis was a wonderful learning experience in project planning and execution. I grew my professional skillset more than I imagined I would, and was able to use the project to build the basis of a new position for myself, as well as the beginning of a new sustainability strategy. My capstone advisor was helpful and responsive, and the feedback I received was fundamental to creating a successful project.