Business cases for ecodesign implementation: a simulation-based framework

Vinícius P. Rodrigues*, Daniela C. A. Pigosso, Tim C. McAloone

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

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    Abstract

    The lack of quantitative mechanisms aimed at evaluating the potential business benefits of ecodesign prior to implementation is a major barrier to wider adoption in manufacturing companies. Ecodesign is defined as the consistent integration of environmental aspects into product development processes. Within this frame, there is a need to understand how the development of ecodesign capabilities affect overall business performance over time. Drawing upon the Ecodesign Maturity Model (EcoM2) as the theoretical foundation, this paper systematically reviews the literature on (i) relevant applications of dynamic modelling and (ii) relationships between ecodesign management practices and key business performance outcomes, in order to develop a simulation-based approach aimed at deriving a business case framework for ecodesign implementation. The resulting framework originates the “business case simulator”, which was subjected to the judgement and evaluation of six industry experts regarding its applicability and usefulness to manufacturing settings. The results are discussed and future research streams – coupled with improvement opportunities to the business case simulator – are pointed.
    Original languageEnglish
    JournalJournal of Cleaner Production
    Volume234
    Pages (from-to)1045-1058
    ISSN0959-6526
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2019

    Keywords

    • Design for environment
    • System dynamics
    • Sustainable product development
    • Sustainable design
    • Sustainability

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