Defining the challenges for ecodesign implementation in companies: Development and consolidation of a framework. (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dekoninck, Elies A.; Domingo, Lucie; O'Hare, Jamie A.; Pigosso, Daniela C.A.; Reyes, Tatiana; Troussier, Nadège
• Is Part Of: Journal of cleaner production. Volume 135(2016:Nov.)
• Page Start: 410
• Page End: 425
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: Ecodesign -- Design for environment -- Implementation -- Challenge -- Framework; Factory and trade waste -- Management -- Periodicals; Manufactures -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Déchets industriels -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Usines -- Aspect de l'environnement -- Périodiques; 628.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2016.06.045
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-6526

Abstract

Abstract: This study addresses the problem of the slow take-up of ecodesign in industry by identifying and categorising the implementation challenges faced by practitioners. Case studies from nine manufacturing companies from five different countries are reported based on interviews with key ecodesign personnel. A literature-derived framework is used to analyse each case, allowing for robust cross-case analysis. Challenges are identified in five areas: strategy, tools, collaboration, management and knowledge. The management category of challenges is the most frequently mentioned by the companies sampled. The tools category is not as prominent as might have been expected given the on-going focus on tool development within this field. The main contributions of the study are the updating of the main challenges for ecodesign implementation faced by industry, and the development of a rich framework of challenges, including new challenges not previously mentioned in the literature. It is suggested that the framework can be used (and evolved) by other ecodesign researchers when developing surveys or questions for in-depth case study interviews as this will facilitate more robust comparisons between studies and support the development of a more consolidated body of knowledge in this field. Highlights: New framework of ecodesign implementation challenges tested through case studies. 'Management' was most frequently cited category of challenge, 'tools' the least. New challenges identified include resistance among staff to ecodesign introduction. Wider use of the framework intended to support research consolidation in the field.