Eco-design: Why is it Important?
The world faces a large range of environmental challenges. This means it is important for companies to create sustainable and regenerative products that reduce negative impacts on the environment. The next generation of products and services will need to adhere to an increasing number of environmental regulations and sustainability targets. More companies are now under pressure to meet sustainability targets, investors are incorporating sustainability metrics into their investment decisions, and new competitors are rising as technology evolves rapidly.
We have always tried to embed eco-design in our process and have the necessary tools to ensure that environmental impact is considered during the decision-making process, similar to technical and economic factors. The EU states “Over 80% of all product-related environmental impacts are determined during the design phase of a product”, which means designers have the opportunity and responsibility to make a positive impact.
How do we do it?
At WAACS we can provide comprehensive eco-design scans in order to map the lifecycle and surrounding services of a project. Through a life cycle analysis, we uncover key insights and identify high-impact opportunities for sustainable innovation. We are committed to working closely with internal stakeholders and leadership to include all parties in the decision-making process in order to serve both the business and customers best. Our experience and expertise, coupled with a desire to create thoughtful designs, enables us to help our clients achieve their social, environmental, and climate goals.
Our Capabilities in eco design
WAACS provides its customers with a systematic approach to reducing their environmental impact. By redesigning products and services to be zero waste, we aim to close the loop and create a circular economy.
Visualize the opportunities
Using visual communication, we are able to create a comprehensible overview of the lifecycle. Through this, we will be able to identify where value is currently lost and where opportunities exist.
Create a baseline with LCA
A life cycle assessment (LCA), enables us to measure the total impact and determine high-impact hotspots. This sets a quantitative and qualitative baseline of environmental impact to which improvements can be compared to.
Generate solutions
Opportunities identified in the analysis can be used to generate solutions. Circular revenue models and design strategies can be used to reduce the environmental impact and create new business opportunities.
Prioritize and evaluate
Promising solutions are evaluated on their potential for success with respect to three criteria: environmental improvement, cost impact, and customer value. We employ an iterative approach to tailor solutions to the needs of the organization.
Incorporating Eco-insights
Our mission is to standardize the integration of eco insights into R&D processes, from early-stage ideation through end stages. Incorporating key eco insights can have a significant impact on the ecological footprint.