Sustainable Design Research Articles

Briefing: Balance – tall buildings, old, new and carbon dioxide: a London perspective

The evolving landscape of tall buildings in London is examined, focusing on their carbon dioxide impact, longevity and adaptability. The challenges faced by ageing skyscrapers like The Gherkin and Tower 42 in maintaining relevance and meeting modern sustainability standards are explored. The importance of balancing embodied carbon dioxide and operational carbon dioxide in building design and construction is also discussed, highlighting recent initiatives in carbon accounting and whole-life carbon assessments. Using case studies of new developments in London's financial district, various approaches to sustainable tall building design are illustrated, including retrofitting existing structures and constructing new, carbon-efficient towers. The conclusion is that tall buildings need to be built with longevity in mind, acknowledging their higher carbon dioxide intensity while recognising their role in meeting urban density requirements.

Mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from endophytic Aspergillus parasiticus and their antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in vitro and in vivo

BackgroundMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a drug-resistant and biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria with severe morbidity and mortality. MRSA showed resistance against currently available antibiotics. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel effective treatments with minimal side effects to eliminate MRSA.AimIn this study, we aimed to mycosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the endophytic fungus Aspergillus parasiticus isolated from leaves of Reseda Arabica and to examine their antibacterial activity against MRSA.ResultsScreening of fungal secondary metabolites using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis revealed the presence of high content of bioactive compounds with antibacterial activities. AP-AgNPs were mycosynthesized for the first time using ethyl acetate extract of A. parasiticus and characterized by imaging (transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–Vis spectroscopy, zeta potential, X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)). The agar well diffusion method revealed the antibacterial activity of AP-AgNPs against MRSA with 25 μg/mL of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). AP-AgNPs were shown to exert antibacterial action via a bactericidal mechanism based on flow cytometry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy assessment. Our data demonstrated the effective interaction of AP-AgNPs with the bacterial cell membrane, which resulted in cell membrane damage and disruption of cell surface structure. Furthermore, AP-AgNPs successfully prevented the development of MRSA biofilms by disturbing cell adhesion and destructing mature biofilm reaching over 80% clearance rate. Interestingly, topical application of AP-AgNPs to superficial skin infection induced by MRSA in mice effectively promoted wound healing and suppressed bacterial burden.ConclusionOur results provide a novel green nanoparticle drug design with effective therapeutic potential against MRSA-induced skin infection.

Sustainable Design and Revolutionary Synthesis of Highly Recyclable Sulfonic Acid–Based Magnetic Nanoparticles as a Solid Acid for Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Benzimidazole and Bis Indole Methane Derivatives

ABSTRACTConcerning the objectives of green chemistry, silica‐coated magnetite nanoparticles provide a new way to implement an efficient and effective system for assisting catalyst recovery across multiple organic reactions. With Fe3O4 spheres serving as the core shell, the synthesis of sulfonic acid‐functionalized silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles is presented in this paper. FTIR, PXRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, TGA, XPS, and VSM techniques were used to assess the prepared catalyst. The proposed nanocatalyst was employed to produce biological relevance 2‐substituted benzimidazole and bis indole methane derivatives. High yield, quick reaction time, soothing reaction conditions, extended functional group tolerance, and an accessible workup approach are the main advantages of synthesized nanoparticles. Furthermore, the present nanocatalyst may be recovered using an external magnet and retaining its effectiveness for up to six cycles. These are distinctive functions of the present approach.

Advances in Transdermal Drug Delivery: The Development of Microneedle Technology for Improved Therapeutic Outcomes

Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems (TDDS) represent a significant advancement in therapeutic administration by allowing drugs to bypass the gastrointestinal system and first-pass hepatic metabolism, enhancing patient compliance, and enabling sustained drug release. However, traditional TDDS face limitations, including resistance from the skin's natural barrier and limited efficacy in delivering large or hydrophilic molecules. Microneedle (MN) technology offers a breakthrough solution, using minimally invasive micron-sized needles to bypass the stratum corneum, facilitating efficient drug delivery without significant pain or discomfort. This review explores the evolution and recent advancements in microneedle technology, highlighting its role in overcoming the limitations of conventional TDDS. Microneedles have been shown to enhance drug bioavailability, reduce side effects, and expand the range of deliverable therapeutics, including vaccines, insulin, and genetic materials. The development of bioinspired 4D microneedles further extends their application to diagnostics and cosmetic treatments, positioning MNs as a versatile tool in modern medicine. Key sections of the review focus on the types of microneedles—solid, coated, dissolving, hollow, and hydrogel-forming—and their respective fabrication methods, materials, and drug delivery mechanisms. The review also discusses the challenges related to scaling up production, ensuring consistent quality, and regulatory hurdles in achieving clinical approval. Future directions include the integration of microneedles with nanotechnology, combination therapies, and sustainable design, particularly in developing regions where biodegradable materials may address environmental and disposal concerns. The potential for microneedle technology to revolutionize transdermal drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapeutic monitoring is significant, with ongoing research paving the way for multifunctional applications that can reshape patient care and treatment modalities.

Oxide-Perovskites for Automotive Catalysts Biotransform and Induce Multicomponent Clearance and Hazard.

Oxide-perovskites designed for automotive catalysts contain multiple metal elements whose presence is crucial to achieving the targeted performance. They are highly stable in exhaust operating conditions; however, little is known about their stability under physiological conditions. As some of the metallic components are hazardous to humans and the environment, perovskite benefits in cleaner air must be balanced with risks in a Safe and Sustainable Design (SSbD) approach. New approach methodologies (NAMs), including in chemico and in silico methods, were used for testing hazards and benefits, including catalytic activity and tolerance for temporary excess of oxygen under dynamic driving conditions. The composition and surface properties of six different lanthanum-based oxide-perovskites compromised their stability under lung physiological conditions, influencing the oxidative damage of the particles and the bioacessibility of leaching metals. We found consistent biotransformation of the oxide-perovskite materials at pH 4.5. The leached lanthanum ions, but not other metals, respeciated into lanthanum phosphate nanoparticles, which increased the overall oxidative damage in additive synergy. The NAM results in the presented SSbD approach were challenged by in vivo studies in rats and mice, which confirmed multicomponent clearance from lungs into urine and supported the comparative ranking of effects against well-characterized spinel materials. Among the perovskites, the version with reduced nickel content and doped with palladium offered the best SSbD balance, despite not improving the conventional benchmark catalytic performance and related sustainability benefits. Redesign by industry may be necessary to better fulfill all SSbD dimensions.

Advancements in Binary Solvent-Assisted Hydrogel Composites for Wearable Sensing Applications

The advancement of wearable sensing technologies has been pivotal in revolutionizing healthcare, environmental monitoring, and personal fitness. Among the diverse materials employed in these technologies, multifunctional hydrogel composites have emerged as critical components due to their unique properties, including high water content, flexibility, and biocompatibility. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in binary solvent-assisted hydrogel composites for wearable sensing applications. It begins by defining hydrogel composites and their essential attributes for wearable sensors, specifically focusing on binary solvent-assisted methods that enhance their performance and functionality. The review then delves into the applications of these composites in health monitoring, environmental detection, and sports and fitness, highlighting their role in advancing wearable technologies. Despite their promising features, there are significant challenges related to durability, sensitivity, and integration that need to be addressed to fully exploit these materials in wearable devices. This review discusses these challenges and presents potential solutions, including the development of new materials, improvement in fabrication processes, and strategies for achieving multifunctionality and sustainable design. Looking forward, the paper outlines future directions for research in this field, emphasizing the need for innovative materials and technologies that can lead to more effective, reliable, and eco-friendly wearable sensors. This review aims to inspire further research and development in the field of wearable sensing, paving the way for new applications and advancements in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and personal fitness technologies.

Sustainable micro renewal and renovation of arts town in China: Intermingling design of contemporary art and Chinese classical garden

<p>The gardening philosophy of Chinese classical gardens is an integral part of China’s rich traditional culture, reflecting ancient scholars’ understanding of nature and humanity and embodying aesthetic and philosophical values. With the progression of time, integrating the principles of Chinese classical garden gardening into contemporary space design has emerged as a critical issue in contemporary public space design. This study uses the Butong Arts Town in Qinhuangdao as a case study, focusing on applying Chinese classical garden gardening concepts in public space design and regional micro-renovation. Special attention is given to nodes that simultaneously serve interactive and recreational functions. In the micro-renovation of the Butong Arts Town area, Chinese classical garden gardening principles can be employed through greening, landscaping, and other means to enhance the quality of the space. Additionally, by integrating local cultural characteristics, it is possible to create public spaces with distinct regional features, providing a comfortable and pleasant environment for artists, designers, planners, and tourists. The design methods used in this study explore the behavioral characteristics and usage needs of various groups from multiple perspectives, aiming to optimize activity spaces. This research identifies the main issues within the target areas and proposes corresponding improvement measures to enhance the functionality and aesthetic quality of the space. The aim is to integrate people’s growing spiritual pursuits with public activity spaces, providing new references and ideas for future sustainable space design.</p>

Game of Life With Your Companion Robot: Exploring the Sustainable Future for Long-Term Human-Robot Interaction

Reducing electronic waste is one of the key topics in Sustainable Interaction Design. However, research regarding the sustainable future of the long-term use of robots is limited. Our study employs a game-based workshop to investigate the factors influencing potential users’ sustainability choices in long-term human-robot interactions. We developed a board game called “Game of Life with Your Companion Robot” to help participants situate themselves in the context of cohabiting with companion robots of their choice. Through five workshops with seventeen participants, we explore (a) the factors mentioned by participants that influence their sustainability choices in long-term human-robot interactions, and (b) the connections between how participants frame their companion robots and their sustainability choices. We use four sustainable criteria to evaluate participants’ choices. Our findings show that different framings of robots can result in different sustainable outcomes.

Multi-Stage Stochastic Programming Under Endogenous Uncertainty of Integrated Sustainable Chemical Process Design and Expansion Planning

Multi-Stage Stochastic Programming Under Endogenous Uncertainty of Integrated Sustainable Chemical Process Design and Expansion Planning

Addressing E-Waste

Electronic waste, commonly referred to as e-waste, is a health and environmental hazard that affects many people and ecosystems around the world. As the volume of e-waste continues to surge, it is imperative this issue is addressed. Contributing to this situation is the Internet of Things (IoT); an expanding industry deploying countless smart devices globally. Prolonging the lifespan of already-deployed devices through acts of repair can help to reduce the impact of IoT on climate change. A sustainable design and innovation approach to addressing this growing problem is to challenge conventional design practices focused on consumption by prioritising community repairability in design. This paper uses an ethnographic and interview approach to explore the challenges of repairing smart devices within community repair contexts. We discuss the impact of fail-fast approaches and the assumptions that repairers hold about the repairability of smart devices. Our findings demonstrate how repair café processes cause smart devices to be filtered out, thereby identifying barriers that designers and repair café organisers must navigate to successfully incorporate the repair of smart products into these settings.

Croí: A Process for Core and Responsible Graphic Communication Design Education

Research has shown that addressing personal values and conviction is crucial for long-lasting Education for Sustainable Development. However, there is a shortage of theory and evidence-based value-focused processes in Graphic Communication Design Education literature. This article presents a novel personal value thinking and doing process called Croí (pronounced Cree) that can be used as a precursor to Education for Sustainable Development in Graphic Communication Design Education. Croí aims to stimulate sustainable transitions by disrupting behaviour development. Over five years, five rounds of Action Research were conducted with third-level educators and students to explore how Croí could facilitate value (or core) design, with the broad aim to encourage sustainable Graphic Communication Design. The initial Croí prototype developed over Cycles One and Two is briefly summarised, with focus on Cycles Three, Four, and Five, where Croí was further developed and evaluated. Data collection included researcher field notes, semi-structured interviews, and written reflections, analysed through Thematic Analysis. Key discussion points include fundamental process elements, Croí's impact on core thinking and doing and responsible thinking and doing, and its potential to facilitate behaviour development. The research concludes that Croí promotes core and responsible thinking and core doing, increasing the likelihood of responsible doing. It offers educators an innovative way to facilitate plural, practical, and core development for graphic communication design students, potentially influencing change in the profession. Croí is not a panacea for the complex issue of Sustainable Development, but it provides a novel and meaningful foundation for disrupting behaviour.

The Sustainability Coefficient of Urban Open Space Illumination Compliance as a Subjective Indicator of Environmental Comfort

Smart lighting of public open spaces plays a crucial role in creating sustainable cities. Investing in optimal methods for improving the energy efficiency of urban lighting systems has become strategic for the economic, technological, and social development of cities. In addition to technical considerations such as energy efficiency and photometric measurements, lighting design should also take into account the subjective aspect of visual safety. However, measuring lighting efficiency in terms of human perception can be challenging because people’s perceptions vary and depend on the urban and architectural context. To address this issue, a sustainability coefficient of outdoor lighting ambiences (Sn) is presented to quantify the compliance of urban open spaces with sustainable lighting design. This coefficient combines two subjective factors: illumination likability and perceived illuminance intensity. The study uses the SEC methodology (suitable for everyone, environmentally accepted, cost-effective), which provides insight into the factors that influence the Sn value. The results showed significant correlations between psychological and aesthetic-functional factors and the Sn, while sociological factors had little influence. The validity of the Sn in a realistic environment can be confirmed. The main reasons for certain Sn levels were identified and possible solutions were proposed, ranging from changes in lighting intensity to architectural redesigns, to improve environmental comfort in urban environments. This study paves the way for a deeper understanding of the role of urban lighting in shaping environmental comfort and human behavior.

Research on Education for Sustainable Development with Design-Based Research by Employing Industry 4.0 Technologies for the Issue of Single-Use Plastic Waste in Taiwan

The social impacts of prevailing circular economy (CE) strategies remain under-researched despite the considerable attention that CE has received from scholars and in industry. Existing CE indicators primarily focus on business models from a decision-making standpoint, overlooking consumer engagement and alternative solutions. Boasting one of the highest recycling rates globally, Taiwan faces challenges in optimizing collected resources. This study delves into recycling plastic waste by integrating consumer behavior within CE strategies, leveraging open-source resources and additive manufacturing technologies to align with the United Nations Agenda 2030, particularly Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action). These resources facilitate the transformation of plastic waste into reusable materials. Employing an exploratory and participatory action research approach, this research uses the Precious Plastic Universe (PPU) database to identify potential resources from post-consumer polymer waste. Subsequently, it explores tools for converting collected waste into usable polymers. Lastly, the study investigates integrating collected polymer waste into student design projects to enhance creativity and problem-solving skills for sustainable development, employing additive manufacturing tools at the National Taiwan Normal University Department of Design. Thematic analysis of the data revealed several recurring patterns, including the role of consumer behavior in plastic waste generation, the development of creativity and problem-solving skills among students, and the challenges of working with recycled materials. These themes were observed in quantitative data (collected single-use polymers) and qualitative insights from student observations and interviews. Through thematic analysis, the study highlights key factors contributing to successful CE integration, providing a model for future educational and industrial applications of sustainable design.

Human-Centered Systems Thinking in Technology-Enhanced Sustainable and Inclusive Architectural Design

Human-centered systems thinking (HCST) can be seen as a promising enabler of effective Industry 5.0. This study primarily examined whether architecture students consider themselves systems thinkers and how this affects their design thinking, digital competency, and engagement in sustainable and inclusive design practices. Next, this study also examined the students’ HCST profiles, their stability, and the roles of digital competency, design thinking, motivation, and risk propensity in human-centered design. Using a person-oriented approach and cluster analysis, a sample of Polish architecture students from three universities (n = 208) was classified based on their self-perceived HCST ability. Three profiles were identified, namely high, average, and low HCST. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) revealed that the HCST profiles differed significantly in terms of design thinking and digital competencies, while multinomial logistic regression (MLR) analysis revealed that perceived intrinsic motivation predicted that students would be more likely to have a high HCST profile. MLR also revealed an undefined role of risk propensity in the context of HCST in inclusive and sustainable architecture design education. The findings indicate that it is essential to recognize and support students with low HCST throughout their education. It is also suggested to change the focus of architecture study programs to promote students’ systems thinking, and to encourage course designers to create novel and tailored technology-enhanced integrated human-centered design and systems thinking.

Thermal Comfort and Green Spaces: The Role of Temperature-Regulating Elements in Neighborhood Parks

According to current studies, the thermal effects of global warming will affect urban areas more intensely. In the face of this situation, strategies for the improvement and management of urban green spaces are becoming increasingly important in sustainable landscape design. These strategies promote social sustainability by positively affecting individuals’ physical and psychological well-being, taking into consideration ecological sustainability. Projections regarding global warming emphasize that the density of hardscapes and green spaces, the selection of plant species, and the distribution of plants considered within the scope of this study should be taken into account. This research was conducted in the Görükle neighborhood of Bursa, focusing on the role of temperature-regulating elements in 14 neighborhood parks. Systematic temperature measurements were carried out in the research area on the 10th, 20th, and 30th of July and August, specifically between 12:00 and 13:00, during peak temperature hours. The presence of parks that are close to each other and relatively far away from each other in the study area was seen as advantageous to filter the effects of plant differences in similar conditions. Furthermore, evaluating these various factors together highlights the multifaceted nature of thermal comfort. Designated temperature measurement points included three points (hard surfaces and hard surfaces surrounded by vegetation and planted green spaces) in each park. An analysis utilizing SPSS and the RayMan program revealed that parks with a softscape to hardscape ratio of approximately two to one experienced temperature reductions of 2.5 to 3 °C. Furthermore, the findings indicate that coniferous trees have a more significant impact on thermal comfort compared to deciduous trees. The significant differences identified in this study underscore essential considerations for urban design processes aimed at achieving sustainability.

Sustainable Urban Design Strategies in a Cultural Equipment. The Samaria of Ibagué, Colombia

Objective: define a method for the development of tools that are capable of interpreting and providing solutions based on design in cultural, architectural, urban and sustainable terms, so that they are applicable in the field of urban design. Theoretical Framework: A review of the historical development of the facilities is addressed, together with the New Urban Agenda, the conceptual sustainability criteria and the techniques contained in the regulations, as well as some software that allows simulation in the design process. Method: The methodology is mixed, in response to the urban design criteria addressed by Bazant (1984). The urban context that a facility must have with respect to the city, the sector and its socio-cultural link with the place to intervene was taken into account. A regulatory analysis and a design simulation were addressed. Results and Discussion: There is a lack of effective space for equipment, in direct correlation with public spaces and the importance of environmental certification regulations as instruments that can efficiently guide urban interventions. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing information on how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of sustainable urban design. These implications could encompass urban planning, regulatory design and simulations. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by presenting design possibilities that link regulations with simulations. The relevance and value of this research is evident in the need for the disciplines of architecture and engineering for the planning of cities.

Exploring the effect of walking patterns on pathway design in landscape architecture using gait analysis

This study investigates the impact of pathway design on human walking patterns using advanced gait analysis techniques to inform landscape architecture. By analyzing key gait parameters such as stride length, cadence, walking speed, step width, and foot placement angles, this research seeks to identify how various pathway features—such as surface material, slope, curvature, and width—influence walking behaviour. Data is collected through motion capture systems and wearable sensors from diverse participants, including individuals of different ages and physical abilities. Statistical methods, including Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), are applied to determine significant differences in walking patterns across pathway types, while ML techniques, such as k-means clustering, classify participants based on their walking strategies. The results offer data-driven insights into how different pathway designs affect walking efficiency and comfort. For example, pathways with a slope of 10% reduced WS by 14% compared to flat pathways, while surfaces like gravel increased Foot Placement Angles by 18% compared to concrete, impacting stability. The study provides practical recommendations for creating pathways that support natural human movement, such as ensuring step width and stride length remain consistent across varied surface types by designing smooth transitions between different materials. The study emphasizes the importance of designing inclusive, accessible pathways that accommodate the needs of diverse user groups. For instance, individuals with mobility challenges exhibited a 12% increase in step width on sloped surfaces, suggesting that gentler inclines and smoother textures are essential for accessibility. The findings contribute to LA by offering evidence-based guidelines that optimize pathways’ functionality and user experience in outdoor environments. These guidelines include maintaining a pathway slope below 5% for universal accessibility and using surface materials like concrete or permeable pavers that balance durability and comfort, promoting sustainability and user-centred design.

Application of Hybrid Absorptive–Diffusive Panels with Variable Acoustic Characteristics Based on Wooden Overlays Designed Using Third-Degree-of-Freedom Bezier Curves

This manuscript describes the application of novel hybrid acoustic panels with variable acoustic properties that could be used in the design process. Despite the significant growth in the modern acoustic absorbing and diffusing panel sector in recent years, there is still a need for sustainable and original designs that will fit standard interior design trends. The most significant requirement is satisfying the design needs of variable acoustic venues. The availability of acoustic panels with variable properties is minimal, as most designs are based on textiles in the form of rolling banners; therefore, there is no market diversity. The current paper presents an original solution for a novel perforated wooden panel based on third-degree-of-freedom curves. Due to the possibility of exchanging the front panel, the acoustic surface can be varied and adjusted to the room considering different requirements for the acoustic climate, for example, by modifying the attenuation range from low to mid–high frequencies. The novel panels have unique esthetic properties with functional acoustic features regarding sound diffusion and absorption. In this paper, sound absorption and diffusion measurements will be presented for the different variants of the panels, presenting the option to modify the parameters to adjust the panel’s features to the room’s needs. In situ acoustic measurements in a laboratory were conducted to test the variable acoustic panels’ influence on the room’s acoustic parameters, such as T30 and C80. In summary, the advantages of this kind of design will be discussed, alongside the possible impact on modern construction materials’ utilization in architecture.

The Properties of Bricks Made from Recycled HDPE

Plastic waste, particularly high-density polyethylene (HDPE), poses significant environmental challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature. Recycling HDPE into building materials, such as bricks, offers a sustainable solution to mitigate these impacts. This study investigates the properties of bricks made from recycled HDPE, focusing on their compressive strength, water absorption, and durability. The results indicate that HDPE bricks exhibit superior mechanical properties, including higher compressive strength and lower water absorption compared to traditional clay bricks. These bricks are lightweight, cost-effective, and demonstrate excellent durability, making them a viable alternative for sustainable construction. The research highlights the potential of recycled HDPE bricks in reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability. The intensifying generation of plastic waste presents a significant environmental challenge worldwide. Plastic waste, due to its non-biodegradable nature, contributes to land and water pollution, requiring the exploration of sustainable waste management solutions. Recycling plastic waste into building materials, such as bricks, offers a potential solution to mitigate environmental impacts. This research aimed to investigate the integration of plastic waste into building materials through a comprehensive study using experimental testing, software analysis, and structural design. The ETAB analysis demonstrated that the HDPE model exhibited lower bending moments and axial loads compared to the concrete model, suggesting superior mechanical properties and load-carrying capacity. This research contributes to the understanding of the behaviour and performance of plastic bricks in structural applications, enabling the development of sustainable and efficient building designs that incorporate plastic waste materials. Key Words: Plastic Waste, Environmental Challenge, Non-Biodegradable, Sustainable Solutions, Experimental Study, Plastic Bricks, Alternative Building Materials, Methodology, Comparable Strength, Plastic Waste Crisis.

Special Issue on Design and Manufacturing for Environmental Sustainability

This is the seventh special issue on Design and Manufacturing for Environmental Sustainability. As the first special issue on the topic was issued in 2009, the topic has a fifteen-year history in this journal. Environmental sustainability was recognized as important for manufacturing even at that time, which is why the special issue was started in this journal. The seriousness of this topic has been increasing not only in Europe but also in Japan and other countries. A recent critical trend has been the way in which companies’ attitudes toward this issue, including their positions on carbon neutrality, a circular economy, and biodiversity, determine their value. Furthermore, particularly striking trend is the promotion of various policies to realize a circular economy, including the adoption of international standards for a circular economy and new eco-design regulations in Europe. These movements indicate the need to transform production and consumption in society as a whole beyond the boundaries of individual companies and industries. The seventh special issue contains seven well-written papers. The papers cover the following topics: - Circular economy - Life cycle design and management - Environmentally conscious design of products and services - Low-energy and low-emission manufacturing - Closed-loop supply chain management - Sustainable consumption and production From the fifteen-year history of this special issue, we have been able to learn viewpoints specific to the series in this journal. Most of the papers, revised and enhanced in response to the editor’s invitation, were originally presented at EcoDesign 2023, the 13th International Symposium on Environmentally Conscious Design and Inverse Manufacturing, held in Nara, Japan. The editor sincerely thanks the authors and reviewers for their contributions in making this special issue possible. We hope that these articles encourage further research on design and manufacturing for environmental sustainability.