Ecodesign

Mauro Cordella

Chapter 46 in Elgar Encyclopedia of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment, 2026, pp 162-163 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Ecodesign, or ecological design, integrates environmental considerations into the development of products, processes, or systems to minimise their environmental impacts while maintaining or enhancing their functionality. It addresses circular economy and environmental aspects like resource depletion, pollution, and climate change through a life cycle thinking perspective. Key principles include improvement of energy and material efficiency, prevention of environmental issues, promotion of inherent safety, and selection of sustainable resources. In particular, the concept of ‘design for circularity’ focuses on material efficiency aspects (e.g. lean design, durability, repairability, recyclability) to support the transition towards a circular economy. Ecodesign is closely linked to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which allows analysing environmental hotspots and improvement options, and recently integrating emerging digital tools, such as digital twins and artificial intelligence. Applications range from cost reduction and regulatory compliance to risk mitigation and brand enhancement. Governments promote Ecodesign through mandatory requirements, eco-labelling, extended producer responsibility, and incentives, aligning with global sustainability goals such as the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals.

Keywords: Ecodesign; Ecological design; Circular economy; LCA; SDGs; Eco-labelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035309887
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