The Power of Circular Economy is in DESIGN
Here’s your cheat sheet for design game-changers:
Do We Need It?: Before incorporating anything new, consider if the product or service truly fulfils a need. Prioritising needs over wants can significantly reduce unnecessary resource consumption.
Material Intensity: Use fewer materials and minimise the variety of material types in a product. This simplifies disassembly and potential reuse of materials at the end of the product's life.
Material Choice: Select materials that are:
Sustainably Sourced: Come from renewable sources or are recovered from existing products.
Low Embodied Impact: Require minimal energy and resources to extract, process, and transport.
Cyclability: Design and procure products that can be easily disassembled, repaired, reused, or remanufactured at the end of their lifespan. This extends product life and reduces reliance on virgin materials.
Renewable Energy & Water: Use renewable energy sources like solar or wind power to minimise the environmental footprint of production. Additionally, strive for efficient water usage throughout the product lifecycle.
Non-Toxicity: Avoid using materials or processes that generate toxic substances that harm human health or the environment.
Versatility: Design or procure products that are adaptable, modular, and can serve multiple functions. This extends their usefulness and reduces the need for multiple single-use products.
Durability: Create products to last a long time, with components that can be easily repaired or replaced. This minimises waste generation due to premature product failure.
New Models: Explore alternative business models that focus on providing services rather than just selling products. Consider take-back programs or offering incentives for consumers to return used products.
Design for Life (People & Planet): Design products that consider the entire lifecycle, from resource extraction to disposal. Prioritise the well-being of people and the planet throughout the design process.
By integrating these principles into design thinking, businesses can create innovative products and services that contribute to a more sustainable future for the Greater Whitsunday Region and beyond.