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YouTube

Why Companies Can't Design Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Products

Design Theory via YouTube

Overview

Explore the challenges of designing sustainable, eco-friendly products in this 22-minute industrial design analysis video. Delve into the complex system of product creation, examining the impact of the Industrial Revolution, the allure of scale, and the "move fast and break things" mentality. Investigate the importance of holistic systems, material sourcing, and the difficulties in measuring sustainability. Learn about the surprising benefits of plastic, mismatched incentives, and the roles of customers, designers, companies, and lawmakers in the sustainability puzzle. Gain insights into the complexities of creating environmentally responsible products and consider potential solutions for a more sustainable future.

Syllabus

Intro
The Industrial Revolution
The Allure of Scale
Move Fast and Break Things
Why A Holistic System Is SO Important
Materials and Sourcing
Sustainability is HARD To Measure
Plastic is Kind of Amazing
Mismatched Incentives
Customers At Fault
Convenience Is King
The Path of Least Resistance
Designers/Engineers Are At Fault
Companies Are At Fault
Lawmakers Are At Fault
Are We Doomed?

Taught by

Design Theory

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

Start your review of Why Companies Can't Design Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Products

  • Profile image for Lana
    Lana
    This course was an eye-opener! It provided a well-structured overview of the challenges companies face when trying to create truly sustainable products. The topics, especially the connections to the Industrial Revolution and the allure of scale, were thought-provoking and well-explained.

    I appreciated how the course balanced historical context with modern-day issues, like the reliance on plastic despite eco-friendly claims. The examples were relatable, and the pacing of the videos kept me engaged throughout.

    Overall, it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in design, sustainability, and the hidden complexities behind product manufacturing. Highly recommended

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