Design and Assessment of Sustainable Products

This book questions the current definition of what makes a product sustainable and argues that a holistic approach to sustainable product design is required, one that considers all aspects of a product’s life cycle from design to production, to use and then final disposal. This edited collection introduces a new set of methods and tools aligned with the concept of comprehensive sustainable produce design that integrates the environmental and social benefits of a product in line with the principles of a circular economy. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and practical framework that underpins a sustainable product, highlighting the multiple key roles of (eco-)design, innovation, quality, and sustainability. The authors describe the criteria for which products can be defined as being sustainable, and outline how different manufacturing technologies influence the value of those products and the place they can find on the market accordingly. The book’s significant contribution lies in identifying the critical factors that are needed to successfully implement the framework throughout the entire life cycle of the product in a holistic integrated approach. This book will be of interest for researchers and students studying sustainable product design, environmental studies, engineering, and sustainable business management. It will also be a useful resource for representatives of the business community, managers, technicians, decision‑makers, and consumers interested in sustainable product design issues.