How-to: Opportunities for circularity in our current designs

As businesses grapple with the escalating environmental impacts of product design, the urgency to transition from a linear economy to a circular one has never been more significant. The traditional 'take-make-waste' model has become untenable, due to its environmental impacts and dwindling economic viability. The circular economy, with its focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling, offers an innovative and sustainable alternative.

The challenge lies in identifying opportunities to introduce circularity in existing designs and leveraging these opportunities for viable solutions. This article explores this critical issue and presents a roadmap towards the effective integration of circular economy principles into industrial design.

System-level perspective

Adopting a system-level perspective is the first crucial step. By scrutinizing each stage of their product lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal, businesses can pinpoint areas ripe for circular interventions.

Renault, a pioneer in the automotive industry, employs a comprehensive 'Eco-Design' strategy. Before even commencing the design phase, the company considers eco-friendly materials, optimizes energy use, and strategizes for end-of-life recycling. As a result, 36% of a Renault vehicle's weight originates from recycled materials.

Another example is Dell Technologies, which commits to a circular approach in its production processes. By 2030, for every product a customer buys, Dell will reuse or recycle an equivalent product and ensure 100% of packaging comes from recycled or renewable material.

Designing for disassembly, reuse, and recycling

Designing products for easy disassembly, reuse, and recycling extends the product lifecycle, reduces waste, and minimizes the need for new resource extraction. This design principle not only reduces environmental impact but can also result in significant cost savings.

Fairphone, the Dutch smartphone manufacturer, has adopted this approach with its modular smartphone design. This strategy allows easy repair and upgrading, keeping phones operational longer and reducing e-waste.

Meanwhile, IKEA has pledged to become a fully circular business by 2030. Their furniture designs are increasingly focusing on modularity and ease of repair, and they've launched a buy-back and resale program, enabling products to have a second life.

Leveraging technology and data

Technology and data provide pivotal tools for enhancing circular economy practices. Digital solutions can boost supply chain transparency, traceability, and efficiency, crucial elements for a successful circular transition.

IBM's Food Trust network utilizes blockchain technology to trace the lifecycle of food products, ensuring sustainable sourcing. Such technologies increase transparency, which is a crucial element of circularity.

Similarly, H&M and the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) have developed a hydrothermal recycling technology. This groundbreaking system separates mixed textiles into reusable new fibers, demonstrating how technology can revolutionize recycling processes.

Fostering collaborative consumption

Collaborative consumption, encompassing sharing, leasing, and service models, is another significant opportunity for circularity. These models are particularly relevant for sectors where assets have infrequent usage.

Another successful example is the Cat Rental Store by Caterpillar, which rents out heavy machinery and equipment, optimizing their use and lowering demand for new products.

In conclusion, opportunities for circularity abound in our current designs. By adopting a system-level perspective, designing for disassembly and recycling, leveraging technology, and fostering collaborative consumption, businesses can lead the way in the transition towards a sustainable, circular economy.