Product Life Cycle Research Articles

Service withdrawal: The uncertain future of the games-as-a-service model

The last decade has seen a rapid growth of service-based offerings – also known as Game-as-a-Service or GaaS – in the video game industry, among which are some of the most popular franchises, such as Fortnite or League of Legends. Yet, even though these games are designed to be played and supported for an indefinite period of time, many studios have recently chosen to curtail services after introducing them, making for unclear outlooks on the future of this business model. Hence, based on secondary sources – including company documents, industry press and dedicated player forums – this multiple case study sets out to investigate the reasons behind studios’ decision to discontinue parts of five popular GaaS. Three main motives for withdrawing services emerge from the cases. Namely, rather than supporting services, studios decide to (1) attend to the company, to (2) attend to players and (3) to attend to the core product itself. The results contribute to the nascent GaaS literature, in particular with respect to business models and product-life cycle considerations. Implications for studios are offered in closing.

Demystifying circular economy and inclusive green growth for promoting energy transition and carbon neutrality in Europe

This paper examines the role of the circular economy and inclusive green growth in promoting energy transition and carbon neutrality for several European countries during 2009–2021, using an advanced econometric strategy. To achieve this objective, we employed a three-pronged empirical strategy. The first strategy involved standard panel specifications, such as pooled ordinary least squares, Fixed Effects, Roger panel regression, white panel regression, and Driscoll–Kraay standard errors. The second strategy explored the long- and short-term dynamics of the relationships using the dynamic specifications of the Generalised Method of Moments, comprising the augmented Arellano–Bond, Ahn–Schmidt, Arellano–Bond, and Arellano–Bover/Blundell–Bond estimators. It further controls for endoegeneity using the Two stages Lease Square (2SLS and Lewbel 2SLS). The third strategy employed the Machado and Silva quantiles via moments to re-evaluate the heterogeneity drivers of carbon neutrality. Furthermore, an alternative and complementary strategy based on the statistical procedures of Hausman–Taylor and Feasible Generalized Least Squares was employed to verify robustness. The findings suggest that prior carbon emissions positively predict future emissions. Also, our results reveal that the adoption of a circular economy, including green growth and renewable energy, can significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions. In contrast, domestic economic drivers, and eco-innovation increase carbon emissions. We propose that policymakers mandate producers to oversee the entirety of their product life cycles as a means to mitigate carbon emissions. Furthermore, endorsing training programs and educational initiatives aimed at cultivating the requisite skills for the energy transition and the adoption of circular economy practices is imperative for ensuring the realization of a successful low-carbon economy.

COST EFFICIENCY ENHANCEMENT IN BIOMASS PELLET MANUFACTURING THROUGH RAW MATERIALS OPTIMIZING

This project explores innovative approaches to enhance efficiency and reduce costs in biomass pellet production. By integrating smart technologies, process optimization, and sustainable practices, the aim is to make biomass pellet production more affordable and environmentally friendly. By implementing smart solutions, the goal is to address challenges related to variability in biomass feedstock, energy inefficiencies, and operational costs. This research not only seeks to improve the economic viability of biomass pellet production but also aims to contribute to the broader goal of fostering renewable energy solutions for a more sustainable future. In addition, the project explores the incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as solar or biomass-based energy, into the production process to further reduce environmental impact and operational costs. The optimization of supply chain logistics is also a focal point, aiming to minimize transportation-related emissions and ensure a more sustainable overall production lifecycle. Through a holistic approach, this research endeavors to provide a roadmap for the integration of smart and sustainable practices, fostering a greener and economically feasible future for biomass pellet production.” Key Points : Feed Hopper, Motor, Roller, Cycle Chain

Assessment of the water-energy-food nexus in the life cycle of energy products

Given the urgent need to achieve energy security and transition from conventional to renewable energy sources, the energy sector is expanding rapidly. However, this growth often involves trade-offs with food and water resources. One way to address this complex interplay is to adopt the Water-Energy-Food nexus within a Life Cycle Assessment. This approach allows the analysis of interrelationships among the three sectors, aiming to foster synergies and minimize trade-offs. While numerous indicators exist to quantify the water-energy relationship, no similar approaches for the energy-food relationship could be found. To bridge this gap, in this paper, we introduce a novel indicator that measures the amount of food that could be produced causing the same land use impact in form of biodiversity damage as 1 MJ of the energy product. Together with another existing indicator that measures the water scarcity footprint per megajoule, a new framework for the analysis of the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus of energy products is developed. Additionally, we present an optional net factor for both indicators. This factor helps to consider the energy use within the product's processes, contributing to a more comprehensive analysis. In our case study, we implement the outlined framework by examining biodiesel production in Argentina. We specifically analyze the impacts of two distinct agricultural technologies—Early and Late Soybean—on the Food and Water sectors. Our findings reveal that for every megajoule of the evaluated product, one could produce 62 or 93 kcal of food causing the same species loss. Additionally, the production process incurs a water scarcity footprint of 6.5 or 6.8 liters per megajoule, depending on the technology used. The proposed framework offers a means to mitigate the water and land use impacts associated with energy products. Consequently, it has the potential to enhance the WEF nexus.

Recent legislation and emerging trends in Cosmetology

As the science of Cosmetology evolves, facing increasingly high demands, the legislative framework related to cosmetic products in the European Union, which is extremely well organized, is constantly on the alert in order to ensure the protection of consumer health and the quality of the environment, but also the avoidance of fraud and financial loss. Challenges constantly arise for new opinions and regulations-amendments of legislative content, which can affect any point in the life cycle of a cosmetic product, from the conception of the initial idea, to the rejection of the product. Sometimes the trends that appear are harbingers of a later need that should be legally defined. For example, the tendency to reduce the use of microplastics, which was a wish-choice in the previous years, is now legally mandated. Therefore, sometimes legislative developments and trends in a field interact significantly. Some recent legislative-type events and the evolution of trends that appeared in the field of cosmetic products after the decisive experience of the pandemic that we recently experienced are selectively presented.

Design Practices for Sustainability in Micro Enterprises in Brazil Through the Innovation Route

Objective: The research aims to map the concept of Design for Environment (DfE) and propose a plan of guidelines for implementation and use in Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) teams focused on packaging. It also aims to identify DfE elements, where they are being used and results produced, as well as proposing a checklist to guide sustainable practices in product and/or packaging designs. Method: The research is qualitative, developed through a bibliographic review, when evaluating the scenario of micro-enterprises that use DfE practices in Brazil through innovation processes. As for nature, it is applied by proposing a checklist to guide best practices to position micro-enterprises in the sustainability scenario. In relation to the objectives, the approach is exploratory in explaining the scenario in which micro-enterprises in Brazil are involved in innovation for Sustainability. Results and Discussion: It was found that for most authors, companies have difficulty innovating due to the challenges and uncertainties that surround them. The study finds a panorama that shows fear on the part of micro and small companies regarding take risks inherent to the innovation process. In this context, it is suggested that in future studies, the approach for knowledge of causes that corroborate this scenario, especially those that are directly related to the innovation process for Sustainability. Research Implications: This study collaborates by sharing the scenario that permeates among micro-enterprises in the national scenario, with regard to investments in innovation for sustainability, fears and risks, signaling to those active microentrepreneurs current projects as well as for those with plans for future micro-enterprises. Originality/Value: At the end, a check list was proposed suggesting the main practices based on DfE based on Product Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).

Practical implementation of configuration management in the context of concept ship design – first lessons

The implementation of configuration management (CM) in support of concept design activities at the Products and Proposals department of Damen Naval has put forward a number of challenges that seem to be unique to the shipbuilding industry and the process of concept development therein, that traditional enterprise-level product lifecycle management software and processes are unable to tackle. Information fluidity, an uneven and fast evolving tooling landscape and limited team sizes have driven us to pursue dedicated software implementations in support of CM during concept design. From the first attempts of doing so, we have seen that a number of performance requirements for the software that were completely under the radar are now driving factors for further selection (mostly related to speed and agility of the tool), while some others even impact our way of working and organizational structure as a whole, requiring us to carry system responsibility per discipline, instead of only functional responsibility.

Greening the future: identifying and mitigating environmental hotspots in the MSME sector - a wall mixer case study

ABSTRACT In response to concerns about depleting natural resources, organisations are developing eco-friendly products and services. This study examines the role of manufacturing industries and services in sustainable resource utilisation, focusing on the Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, a significant contributor to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, the research identifies hotspots within the production processes of three companies manufacturing bathroom fittings, specifically the ‘Wall mixer’ component used in households and hotels. The study calculates In response to concerns about depleting natural resources, organisations are developing eco-friendly products and services. This study examines the role of manufacturing industries and services in sustainable resource utilisation, focusing on the MSME sector, a significant contributor to global GDP. Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, the research identifies hotspots within the production processes of three companies manufacturing bathroom fittings, specifically the ‘Wall mixer’ component used in households and hotels. The study calculates CO2 equivalents for each phase of the product lifecycle, identifying average gate-to-gate process values across the companies. This comparison reveals specific hotspots, with a significant one identified, leading to recommendations for industries to prioritise this issue for immediate energy savings. The primary focus is to establish an initial benchmarking system to reduce CO2 equivalents in cradle-to-gate or gate-to-gate systems. Implementing these measures is expected to reduce the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and raw material usage, ultimately enhancing profitability for the three companies. equivalents for each phase of the product lifecycle, identifying average gate-to-gate process values across the companies. This comparison reveals specific hotspots, with a significant one identified, leading to recommendations for industries to prioritise this issue for immediate energy savings. The primary focus is to establish an initial benchmarking system to reduce CO2 equivalents in cradle-to-gate or gate-to-gate systems. Implementing these measures is expected to reduce the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and raw material usage, ultimately enhancing profitability for the three companies.

Hazard assessment of hexagonal boron nitride and hexagonal boron nitride reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane composites using human skin and lung cells

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is an emerging two-dimensional material attracting considerable attention in the industrial sector given its innovative physicochemical properties. Potential risks are associated mainly with occupational exposure where inhalation and skin contact are the most relevant exposure routes for workers. Here we aimed at characterizing the effects induced by composites of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and hBN, using immortalized HaCaT skin keratinocytes and BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells. The composite was abraded using a Taber® rotary abraser and abraded TPU and TPU-hBN were also subjected to photo-Fenton-mediated degradation mimicking potential weathering across the product life cycle. Cells were exposed to the materials for 24 h (acute exposure) or twice per week for 4 weeks (chronic exposure) and evaluated with respect to material internalization, cytotoxicity, and proinflammatory cytokine secretion. Additionally, comprehensive mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics (secretomics) analyses were performed. Overall, despite evidence of cellular uptake of the material, no significant cellular and/or protein expression profiles alterations were observed after acute or chronic exposure of HaCaT or BEAS-2B cells, identifying only few pro-inflammatory proteins. Similar results were obtained for the degraded materials. These results support the determination of hazard profiles associated with cutaneous and pulmonary hBN-reinforced polymer composites exposure.

Model-based process optimization of black soldier fly egg production.

Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae (Hermetia illucens) serve as a valuable protein source for animal feed. Limiting factors in the industrial rearing of BSF are the reproduction process and egg output. Studies indicate the potential to shorten preoviposition time and increase egg output through better utilization of environmental variables, such as temperature and light, in industrial settings. Excessive stimulation, however, can lead to stress, elevated production costs, and reduced egg numbers, emphasizing the need for a delicate balance. This study addresses these challenges by investigating controlled manipulation of environmental variables to stimulate mating and enhance egg production, thereby developing a comprehensive model encompassing the adult fly life cycle, mating, and egg production. Model parameters were fitted using literature data, and the model's plausibility was tested through simulations. Using the model and optimal control methods, the calculated dynamic trajectories for environmental variables when compared to the standard approach in a constant environment demonstrated higher output and shorter production cycles at reasonable energy costs. Applications for this model-based optimization are demonstrated for various scenarios, highlighting the practical utility and versatility of the developed model. This study contributes valuable insights for improving rearing practices of BSF through environmental stimulation, offering potential advancements in egg production efficiency and overall sustainability.

Contribution of hospital pharmacists to sustainable healthcare: a systematic review

BackgroundWith a global annual carbon footprint of the healthcare sector of 2 gigatons of CO2e, healthcare systems must contribute to the fight against climate change. Hospital pharmacists could be key...

Towards circular fashion: Management strategies promoting circular behaviour along the value chain

The fashion industry is a significant driver of cultural, societal, and economic growth worldwide, but its traditional linear approach has led to negative environmental and social impacts. This study addresses the need to transition towards sustainable and circular practices by exploring the relationship between management strategies and behaviours across the fashion value chain. Through 10 semi-structured interviews with top industry decision-makers, thematic analysis revealed eight core themes, including collaborations, marketing strategies, product-related characteristics, education and awareness, business models, integration of technology, regulations and legislation, and strategic planning. The study provides targeted recommendations for stakeholders to promote a more sustainable and circular behaviour in the fashion industry. For instance, it emphasises strategic partnerships with suppliers, waste management companies, and consumers to minimise waste and promote circularity across the value chain. It urges the adoption of sustainable materials and eco-friendly designs for environmentally conscious consumers and encourages visual storytelling for transparency. Additionally, the study highlights the need for circular business models, recommending on-demand and made-to-measure manufacturing to align production with demand and reduce overproduction. Offering end-of-life strategies such as take-back programs, recycling initiatives, and repair services extends product lifecycles and creates sustainable value. Integrating advanced technologies such as digital IDs improves supply chain transparency and accountability. These actionable recommendations guided the development of a comprehensive framework for the practical application of sustainable and circular practices across the value chain, offering industry practitioners, researchers and policymakers effective strategies for driving impactful change within the fashion industry.

IMPACTS OF TOBACCO USE AND EXPOSURE TO TOBACCO SMOKE ON HEALTH, SOCIETY, ECONOMY, AND ENVIRONMENT

Smoking represents a significant global public health challenge and is the primary preventable cause of disease and death. This problem is accentuated by the fact that a substantial 80% of adult smokers worldwide come from low- or middle-income countries. The aim of this paper is twofold: first, to highlight the health impacts associated with tobacco use, and second, to delineate the indirect damage caused to the environment during the life cycle of tobacco products - from production and distribution to consumption and waste generation. The reluctance of some countries to take decisive action, together with intense pressure from tobacco corporations, is hindering progress towards reducing the number of adult smokers and curbing tobacco use among minors. State interventions, supported by strict laws, are necessary to enforce the ban on indoor smoking, the ban on the sale of tobacco to minors, and the establishment of permanent interstate cooperation in the fight against cigarette smuggling. Educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of smoking and tobacco consumption are key to fostering a smoke-free culture. A strong media campaign, supported by state measures, could contribute to faster and more comprehensive targeting of target groups, especially younger age categories.

Impact of new maize variety adoption on yield and fertilizer input in China: Implications for sustainable food and agriculture

CONTEXTCrop variety adoption is considered as one of the main strategies for farmers to enhance productivity under stress brought by the climate change, with less environmental impacts. It holds an upstream position in the whole life cycle of agricultural clean production, compared to the field management and agricultural non-point source pollution treatment. OBJECTIVEThis paper aims to (i) assess the impact of new maize variety adoption on maize yield and fertilizer input; (ii) analyze the main determinants of farmers' new maize variety choice in the context of climate change, and (iii) identify the heterogeneity of small-scale and large-scale farmers in maize variety choice and its impacts. METHODSBased on plot-level data collected from three major grain producing provinces in China, we employ a treatment effects model to correct the potential bias resulting from the farmers' self-selection and estimate the direct impacts of farmers' new maize variety adoption and the main determinants of such adoption. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSThe empirical results indicate that the adoption of new maize varieties significantly increases maize yield by 9.4% but fertilizer use by 16.6 kg/mu (1 mu = 1/15 ha) as well, and this trade-off between economic impacts and environmental impacts is more pronounced among small-scale farmers. However, in the face of natural disasters, adopting new maize varieties results in a significant reduction in yield losses by 1.4% and a decrease in fertilizer input for natural disaster management by 2.45 kg/mu, as compared to the adoption of old varieties. What's more, our findings suggest that a higher frequency of pest and disease disasters significantly increases the probability of new maize variety adoption by farmers, while a higher frequency of climate disasters significantly decreases the probability. SIGNIFICANCEThe estimated impacts of new maize varieties point out the need of synergistically optimized resistance and nutrient use efficiency for crop breeding, which have important policy implications for sustainable food and agriculture. Also, the significant factor analysis contributes to the proposal of feasible ways to promote the farmers' adoption behavior.

Emerging Technologies in Chemical Engineering: Advancements in Process Optimization, Sustainable Practices, and Future Innovations

The abstract encapsulates the essence of the study on emerging technologies in chemical engineering, focusing on advancements in process optimization, sustainable practices, and future innovations. Within the dynamic landscape of chemical engineering, the integration of emerging technologies has reshaped industrial processes, offering new opportunities to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. This study explores the transformative potential of emerging technologies, such as computational modelling, artificial intelligence, and bioprocess engineering, in addressing pressing societal and environmental challenges while driving innovation and sustainable development. Through a comprehensive literature review and synthesis of key findings, the study highlights the pivotal role of chemical engineering in shaping the design, optimization, and implementation of industrial processes across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, energy production, pharmaceuticals, and environmental remediation. Advancements in process optimization, facilitated by the integration of computational tools and data analytics, enable engineers to systematically analyze and control chemical processes with unprecedented precision and efficiency, leading to improvements in productivity, resource utilization, and waste reduction. The adoption of sustainable practices, such as green chemistry principles, renewable energy sources, and circular economy initiatives, reflects a growing emphasis on minimizing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency throughout the product lifecycle. Concurrently, the exploration of future innovations in chemical engineering, including nanotechnologies, bioprocesses, and advanced materials, offers promising opportunities to address emerging challenges and drive positive change in the field. By synthesizing these key findings, the study provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with emerging technologies in chemical engineering, guiding future research, policy, and practice towards achieving sustainable and resilient industrial processes. In essence, the study contributes to advancing knowledge and understanding of the transformative potential of emerging technologies in chemical engineering and their role in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for society and the planet.

A Systemic Approach to the Product Life Cycle for the Product Development Process in Agriculture

For a long time, a company’s Product Development Process (PDP) was seen as supporting the operations department, although PDP decisions and mistakes have a considerable impact on market performance. This is critical even in agriculture where bad habits and practices in the PDP can lead rural producers to great losses. Therefore, this research investigates the effect of the PDP on the market performance of rural products (bananas) in the southern region of Brazil, based on two analyses: (i) how sustainability practices support the PDP phases and (ii) how the phases of the Product Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) mediate sustainability practices and PDP phases. This study presents a quantitative analysis using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and hierarchical ordinary least squares (OLS) regression of data obtained from a survey of 110 rural producers who directly participate in the banana production and planning process in southern Brazil. Our results show that sustainability practices support the PDP, and we confirm that the product development and post-development phase has an effect on market performance. In addition, we identify that in the pre-development phase of the PDP, dealing with rural products (bananas), the maturity stage of the LCA mediates sustainability. In the PDP development phase, we conclude that rural families who develop economic and environmental practices with their products, which are in the market growth phase may have reduced results. As for the post-development phase of the PDP, we conclude that when companies invest in environmental and social practices, there is a complete mediation of the effect, where these practices lose strength if the product is in the introductory and maturity phases in the market. In an original matter, our study contributes to demonstrating the value of the product life cycle for the Product Development Process in agriculture using sustainability practices through a systemic approach, filling the gap in the literature due to a lack of integrated research on these areas seen.

Collaborative and life cycle-based project delivery for environmentally sustainable building construction: views of Finnish project professionals and building operation and maintenance experts

PurposeThe energy performance gap (EPG) in building construction has been one of the major barriers to the realization of environmental and economic sustainability in the built environment. Although there have been a few studies addressing this issue, studying this topic with a special focus on the project delivery process has been almost overlooked. Hence, this study aims to address the EPG in building construction through the lens of collaborative and life cycle-based project delivery.Design/methodology/approachIn order to realize the objective of this study, the development of a theoretical framework based on the literature review was followed by a qualitative study in which 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with Finnish project professionals representing clients, design/planning experts, constructors and building operation/maintenance experts to explore their views on the topic under study.FindingsThe findings reveal the project delivery-related causes of EPG in building construction. Moreover, the obtained results present a collaborative and life cycle-based delivery model that integrates project and product (i.e. building) life cycles, and it is compatible with all types of contractual frameworks in building construction projects.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the findings of this study significantly contribute to theory and practice in the field of collaborative and sustainable construction project delivery, it is acknowledged that these findings are based on Finnish professionals’ input, and expanding this research to other regions is a potential area for further studies. Moreover, the developed model, although validated in Finland, needs to be tested in a broader context as well to gain wider generalizability.Originality/valueThe obtained results reveal the significance and impact of collaborative and life cycle-based project development and delivery on the realization of environmentally sustainable building construction.

Circular And Sustainable: Evaluating Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling using a Combined Statistical Entropy and Life Cycle Assessment Methodology.

While there has been a growing interest on the concept of Circular Economy (CE), its correlation with sustainability remains controversial. In this work, the combination of Statistical Entropy Analysis (SEA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is proposed as a new methodology to evaluate recycling processes from the perspective of materials circularity and environmental impacts using a Li-ion battery recycling process as a case study. This work addresses the need of quantitative circularity indicators, as SEA evaluates the concentration of materials at a systems level, while LCA measures the environmental impact of recycling processes in comparison with virgin raw materials production. It was found that process optimization points can be found by simultaneously accounting for materials recovery and the LCA categories of global warming potential, ozone depletion and mineral resource scarcity. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found for the first time between the recovery of critical elements and the environmental impact of raw materials production. The proposed methodology thus offers a robust analysis of a product lifecycle that aids in its design and optimization from the CE perspective.

Review Paper - Study on Product Life Cycle of Netflix

The product life cycle (PLC) is a theoretical framework that delineates the stages a product traverses throughout its existence in the market. The concept encapsulates four principal phases: introduction, growth, maturity, and decline. During the introduction stage, a product is launched, initial sales are modest, and companies typically invest heavily in marketing and distribution. As the product gains traction, it enters the growth phase, marked by exponential sales growth, intensified competition, and rising profitability. Subsequently, the product transitions into the maturity stage, characterized by a plateau in sales growth, increased competition, and a focus on differentiation strategies. Finally, the decline stage ensues, where sales decline due to market saturation, changing consumer preferences, or technological advancements. Companies may opt to discontinue the product or pursue rejuvenation efforts to prolong its lifespan. Understanding the product life cycle aids businesses in formulating effective strategies for product development, marketing, pricing, and resource allocation across its lifecycle stages.

Optimizing energy modeling in PBF-LB/M metal additive manufacturing: a detailed analysis of resource and energy demand based on standard tensile test specimen

Additive manufacturing is an essential tool in modern production processes. Competitive quality and the increasing importance of local manufacturing have allowed companies to maintain their production despite supply chains disrupted by the pandemic. However, the rising awareness of society towards environmental and climate protection, the increasing demand for resource-efficient products, and recent developments in energy costs are leading to a rethink in manufacturing processes. Additive manufacturing offers great potential for resource saving components. This study uses standard tensile test specimens to analyze AM processes regarding energy and material flows. The results show a high dependence of energy demand on process time and are transformed into a data-based energy model. Compared to previous energy models, the accuracy can be significantly improved using model data in combination with specific and system-oriented approaches. In addition to system-related saving potentials, design-related optimization potentials can be identified. Innovative and highly resource-saving components can be designed with a design methodology adapted to the extended degrees of freedom of AM. Further saving and recycling potentials can be identified along the material flows. A long-term goal is optimizing and predicting of resource demand in additive manufacturing with a view to the entire product lifecycle.