Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

Question 1

Name three ways designers can reduce a product’s environmental impact?

Answer 1

Using sustainable materials, designing for recyclability, and reducing energy consumption during manufacturing.

Question 2

Why is using recycled materials beneficial in product design?

Answer 2

It reduces waste, conserves resources, and lowers environmental impact.

Question 3

Explain what is meant by computer-aided-manufacture.

Answer 3

Computer aided manufacture is when a machine is controlled by a computer and that machine creates an exact replica of the digitally designed product. Examples include 3D printing, laser cutting and using a CNC router.

Question 4

Describe the benefits and drawbacks of computer-aided manufacture.

Answer 4

Benefits
The unit cost for each product is reduced.
Each product is exactly the same and made to the exact same standard.
Drawings and CAD models for the products can be sent worldwide using the internet.
There is often less waste and less energy used in computer aided manufacturing processes.

Drawbacks
If something breaks down, all production stops.
Set up costs are high.

Question 5

How have design technologies impacted society?

Answer 5

people are buying items in larger quantities more frequently, products are more affordable and accessible with the rise in same day or next day delivery as well as being offered at low prices.

Question 6

Suggest how a designer’s decisions can have an impact on the environment.

Answer 6

Carbon footprint caused by sourcing raw materials

Are the materials used to make the product and packaging recycled or recyclable

Emissions from factories used to manufacture the product and packaging