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Topic 3 Magic triangle: Eco-design, LCA and CE

Module 6 Circular economy life cycle assessment Unit 2 LCA and relations with CE Topic 3 Magic triangle: Eco-design, LCA and CE

Eco-design is based on Life Cycle Thinking.

Eco-design

During the product development process, the designer thinks about the environmental impact of the new product for each stage of the life cycle, starting from the extraction of the raw materials, production of materials from these raw materials, the production techniques to transform materials into components, assembly of these components into products, distribution and packaging of products, use phase (the impact of consumables and energy consumption), and finally the use phase by the consumer
The ability to repair, upgrade, remanufacture products and improve the recyclability of materials begins with product design
Implementing eco-design principles is key to the success of the Circular Economy

Possible better alternatives for the entire life cycle can be identified through LCA when the limitations of the circular model are recognised during the first phase.

Video: Eco coffee cups?

– Leyla Acaroglu on design-led sustainability, life cycle thinking and functions –

Source: Disrupt Design

Example of the Functional Units used in Life Cycle Assessment and Design looking at LCA of different coffee cups.

You will be surprised at what cup is better!

Mythbusting Quick Explanation: designed for educators to help explore the use of Life Cycle Thinking and Functional Units used in Life Cycle Assessment (and/or Design)

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