Life Cycle Thinking and Eco-Design: An Overview

Abstract

Life cycle thinking is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of environmental management, particularly within product-based environmental management systems that often incorporate eco-design principles. Eco-design can be applied to various aspects of product management, yet small and medium-sized enterprises frequently face challenges in implementing these activities due to their unique operational constraints. This paper proposes a simplified approach to eco-design, tailored specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises, by introducing a life cycle-based environmental classification of products. This classification serves as a starting point for small and medium-sized enterprises to enhance the environmental performance of their products through more informed design decisions. The primary objective of the paper is to present this classification system and discuss its potential role in improving product sustainability within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises operations. The study involved analyzing 50 products, which were classified according to selected environmental criteria. In the initial phase, a cluster analysis was conducted to categorize products into passive and active groups based on their environmental characteristics. However, the findings suggest that relying solely on this cluster analysis may not provide sufficient information for comprehensive eco-design strategies. To address this limitation, a second classification was performed using selected environmental impact indicators, specifically global warming potential and cumulative energy demand, calculated across three life cycle stages: production, use, and final disposal. This refined classification highlights the environmental hotspots for each product, offering a more detailed understanding of where improvements can be made. The final product classification provides valuable insights into the environmental impacts of different products, offering small and medium-sized enterprises a practical tool to support the implementation of life cycle-based eco-design processes. By adopting this approach, small and medium-sized enterprises can better navigate the complexities of eco-design, ultimately leading to more sustainable product outcomes and enhanced environmental performance.