What is 'sustainability assessment' in product design?

Sustainability assessment in product design focuses on evaluating the environmental impacts of a product throughout its lifecycle. This process takes into account every stage from raw material extraction, production, and distribution, to use and ultimate disposal or recycling. It aims to understand how a product affects the environment at each phase and identifies potential areas for improvement to reduce negative impacts.

This assessment is crucial in promoting eco-friendly design practices, helping designers make informed decisions that enhance sustainability. It encourages the choice of materials, manufacturing processes, and product features that minimize ecological harm, promote energy efficiency, and support the use of renewable resources. By emphasizing a product's lifecycle, sustainability assessment aligns with broader environmental goals, making it an essential aspect of modern product design.