Page 167 - Fundamental of Engineering Design

◦ For the designer to consider sustainable design throughout the
process, the question becomes what are the stages of the design

process and design development that you can consider changing in

order to make a more sustainable product? Below are some ideas on

how to implement sustainability in design for each design area:

◦ Form

The form represents the visual shape of the product and is usually

perceived to be the main element of the design. Before designing a
product’s layout, however, the designer should ask questions like how

will the shape affect energy consumption; and how will the size affect

the packaging, transportation costs, and fuel emissions? IKEA’s flat

packing strategy, for example, helped it reduce transport costs, fuel
usage, and emissions.

◦ Function and Usability

The function and usability of the product contributes to its sustainability

in an indirect way, as it helps consumers use the product more easily in
less time and with less energy consumption. People do not want to keep

hard-to-use products, so usable products can ensure less waste and

throwaways.
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