2. Eco Terminology

There is much debate over eco terminology as this branch of the subject continues to develop rapidly. In general, most designers will refer relatively loosely to eco-design or sustainable design. Those working in recycling will point generally to this as their abroad area of activity. Champeney (2006), however, has questioned the tendency for environmentalists to impose an environmental value to all objects made using recycled materials. It is important to establish here that eco-design does not deal with the fundamental question of whether a product is really needed in the full context of sustainability. To do this, we need to explore other elements such as: cultural attitudes, value systems, ethics, equity and access into design processes. Design for recycling and recycleability is often seen as the easy option when energy efficiency or reduced emissions may result in less environmental impact (Goggin and Dewberry, 1997). Turning rags to rugs and tin into jewellery is nothing new (Press, 1997).

The challenge for the manufacturer then is to focus on design-led thinking, the psychology of the designer, the intricate process of trade-offs that may arise and the creative and aesthetic opportunities that designing for sustainability presents.