Analysis and Ranking of Drivers for Eco-design Implementation in the Finnish Pulp and Paper Industry

Abstract

The study of eco-design practices has become an important aspect of sustainable manufacturing. Therefore, the identification and selection of key drivers for eco-design implementation is becoming essential. However, further research is needed in order to understand what are the key drivers that increase the efficiency of eco-design implementation and improve the company’s sustainability performance. The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate the drivers for implementation of eco-design in the Finnish pulp and paper industry. The drivers are identified through literature research and a survey is conducted for their evaluation. Data analysis is performed by using ranking methodology in order to investigate and identify the key drivers for eco-design implementation practices in the Finnish pulp and paper industry. Driver for implementation “Management’s idea” and driver “Customer demand” for both continuation and implementation have the highest rank in all scenarios. In contrast, driver ‘One or few employees pushed idea’ for implementation and drivers ‘Personal quest for a better environment’ and ‘Increased employee satisfaction through environmental initiatives’ from for continuation have the lowest rank for the all scenarios. This study adds knowledge into the current literature of sustainable manufacturing and will provide insights to practitioners and decision makers in terms of eco-design implementation issues in an effective and efficient manner.