PROD 3: Sustainability and Green Design

> an approach in design to reduce impact on the environment

> focuses on one or two areas such as conserving materials through using recycled materials in the manufacture of the product or by conserving energy in the use of the product

> e.g the Dyson contra-rotating washing machine uses a water jet system to reduce the amount of water used, and the agitation caused by the two tubs turning in opposite directions reduces the time taken to wash clothes, thus saving energy

> goes further than green design

> designers and manufacturers will try to reduce the impact of a product through its entire lifecycle from raw materials extraction to final disposal

> e.g a company developing a new washing machine may consder:

selection of low impact materials

reduction in materials useage (in manufacture and packaging)

reduction of impact during use and optimisation of initial lifetime

optimisation of end-of-life systems (for recycling and recovery of materials and components)

> the main function of a product is analysed and a more environmentally sound method of performing the same function is sought

> often has wider socio-economic benefits such as improved welfare and safety for workers producing the product, fair trade schemes ect

> e.g instead of using a tumble dryer, it may be possible to use an alternative such as a cabinet which is heated by solar energy

> a radical approach which goes beyond sustainable design

> looks for new ways of doing things using a mix of products and services

> organically grown, naturally coloured cotton (reducing pesticides and chemical dyes)

> sandals made from recycled denim

> folding bicycles

> condensing gas central heating boilers

> biodegradable carrier bags

> pencils made from recycled polystyrene cups