Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
A prioritized guideline for applying Cradle to Cradle design rules in product development
Roith, Alexander; Seibel, Arthur
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Paetzold-Byhain, K.; Krause, D.; Wartzack, S. and Koch, A.
Author:
Series:
DfX
Institution:
Leuphana University Lüneburg, Germany; Siemens Healthineers AG, Kemnath, Germany
Page(s):
180-189
DOI number:
Abstract:
Cradle to Cradle (C2C) is a circular economy concept that embeds circularity in product design through eco-effectiveness rather than solely reducing impacts through eco-efficiency. However, practical guidance for applying C2C principles in product development remains limited, particularly regarding specific design rules. Here, we build on previous work by analyzing design rules and C2C principles in a multi-step approach and by developing a guideline with C2C-specific design rules. The results show that eco-effective rules mainly address material selection, complexity reduction, and material separation and should therefore be considered early in development. An example application demonstrates the guideline’s practical applicability and its importance for supporting circular design.
Keywords:
