A methodology for the development of cleaner products: The ideal-eco-product approach

Abstract

This paper describes a methodology for the development of ideal eco-products. It focuses on complex technical products such as computers, cars and washing machines. For these products, the exclusive use of life cycle assessment results as the only input for the consideration of eco-aspects in the design process is not sufficient. Other instruments, such as guidelines or checklists as well as suitable eco-design methodologies, should also be applied. One of those methodologies is the ‘ideal-eco-product approach’. This approach includes two phases. In the first phase, ‘extreme product versions’ are developed which are ideal in respect to one specific type of environmental impact, e.g. one product which is ideal for remanufacturing or one which has minimal waste generation. In the second phase, a unification of these ‘extreme versions’ is carried out, which leads to the best compromise or to an ‘ideal eco-product’.