Exploratory study of the state of environmentally conscious design in the medical device industry. (1st December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moultrie, James; Sutcliffe, Laura; Maier, Anja
• Is Part Of: Journal of cleaner production. Volume 108:Part A(2015)
• Page Start: 363
• Page End: 376
• Publication Date: 2015-12-01
• Subjects: Design for environment (DfE) -- Medical devices -- Ecodesign -- Design for sustainability (DfS); 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.2015.06.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-6526

Abstract

Abstract: This exploratory study seeks to explore the current state of design for the environment (DfE) in the development of medical devices; an historically risk averse industry that lags behind others in terms of addressing environmental considerations. A cross-sectional survey of 34 medical device designers, primarily in the UK and USA, was conducted in order to fulfil this objective. Findings indicate that there is significant motivation to enhance DfE practice, but that there are multiple barriers to this. Major barriers identified are a perception of the high cost of DfE, the industry's current reliance on a single-use business model for many current products and a lack of education about DfE topics on all sides. Designers felt that the most significant opportunities to implement DfE are in situations where they are able to exert direct control, mainly in the early stages of the design process. Issues noted include raw material choice and packaging decisions. The nature of single use business models is also critical, pointing towards the needs for a systemic rather than product focus. For this to be achieved, financial rewards must be evident to firms and the changing regulatory landscape might also make a more significant impact. Highlights: We conduct a cross sectional survey of 34 medical device designers on Design for Environment (DfE) topics. There are many barriers to DfE in this risk averse industry; single use business models are critical. Greater consideration of the wider product service system is needed to overcome focus on single use. More designer education is needed in DfE in the medical device industry. There are initial DfE opportunities in areas such as materials and packaging.