Barriers and benefits to ecodesign: A case study of tool use in an SME

Abstract

There are numerous eco-analysis tools that are indicative of a product's environmental performance using indicators such as eco-toxicity and damage to human health. Many of these tools are resource intensive, require significant expertise and are hence unsuitable for Small to Medium size Enterprises (SMEs). As SMEs represent a substantial proportion of the economy, targeting these companies presents an opportunity to significantly enhance implementation of ecodesign practice in Welsh businesses. The following paper seeks to explore the benefits and barriers associated with utilizing three current eco-analysis tools for an SME. It explores how Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C), Carbon Footprinting (CFP) and Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) can be utilised by SMEs to comprehensively evaluate a product's environmental performance. To achieve this, the paper presents a case study of Orangebox, a furniture design company based in Wales that has an ecodesign led approach to New Product Development (NPD). The support this, the company recently undertook a C2C analysis for the Ara, an innovative, award winning task chair design. This case study evaluates the potential long-term benefits associated with using these tools, such as embedding life cycle thinking within an SME's design culture.