| Title |
WHICH WAY TO TURN? Product longevity and business dilemmas in the circular economy |
| ID_Doc |
2596 |
| Authors |
Cooper, T |
| Title |
WHICH WAY TO TURN? Product longevity and business dilemmas in the circular economy |
| Year |
2017 |
| Published |
|
| DOI |
|
| Abstract |
A circular economy offers the potential for resources to be used more sustainably. While the concept is primarily associated with recycling, there are added benefits to be gained from slowing cycles of resource use through longer product lifetimes. Noting a growth of political and academic interest in the topic, this chapter considers the significance of product longevity for environmental sustainability, consumers and industry, and the implications for design. Findings from recent research on consumers' expectations of product lifetimes are summarized and their maintenance and disposal behaviour explored. The feasibility of product lifetime labelling is assessed, together with other policy options for encouraging increased product longevity. Industry has historically been blamed for planned obsolescence and criticism of companies operating with traditional 'linear' business models continues. Alternative business models that could enable companies to increase their products' lifetimes while remaining competitive are identified. Finally, the potential role of designers in this emerging debate is considered. |
| Author Keywords |
circular economy; product lifetimes; obsolescence; consumer behaviour; business models |
| Index Keywords |
Index Keywords |
| Document Type |
Other |
| Open Access |
Open Access |
| Source |
Book Citation Index – Social Sciences & Humanities (BKCI-SSH) |
| EID |
WOS:000440279200033 |
| WoS Category |
Art; Business; Green & Sustainable Science & Technology |
| Research Area |
Art; Business & Economics; Science & Technology - Other Topics |
| PDF |
|