Improving eco-design projects through better understanding of the company characteristics and business context

Molly Buckingham*, Elies Dekoninck, Chris McMahon

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference Contribution (Conference Proceeding)

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper examines the role of the supported pilot project in introducing and embedding eco-design practices. This is achieved through the documentation of a pilot project that failed to achieve a desired level of embedded change. A comprehensive review of this project identifies the often overlooked impact the company's characteristics and business context, had on the project outcomes achieved. The level of impact observed within this review suggests that more successful outcomes would be have been achieved if the pilot project had been more closely aligned to the company's specific situation. With this in mind the paper develops a Company Characterisation Process and identifies key company features that should be documented and addressed within eco-design pilot project briefs. This research encourages a more customised approach to eco-design pilot projects with the aim of supporting environmental design change from within an organisation rather than imposing it externally. The goal is to help future eco-design pilot projects achieve more embedded outcomes that lead to lasting change within industry.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the International Conference on Engineering Design, ICED
Pages337-345
Number of pages9
Volume3 DS75-03
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2013
Event19th International Conference on Engineering Design, ICED 2013 - Seoul, Korea, Republic of
Duration: 19 Aug 201322 Aug 2013

Conference

Conference19th International Conference on Engineering Design, ICED 2013
Country/TerritoryKorea, Republic of
CitySeoul
Period19/08/1322/08/13

Keywords

  • Design management
  • Design practice
  • Eco design
  • Knowledge-action gap

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