Clean Technology
- This approach aims to lower environmental impact through
- incremental or
- radical improvements in production systems
Definition
Clean technology
Clean technology refers to products and processes that reduce waste and minimize the use of non-renewable resources.
Think of clean technology as a way to design smarter, using fewer resources and creating less waste.
Theory of KnowledgeHow do cultural perspectives influence the adoption of clean technology?
Incremental versus Radical Solutions: Comparison, Advantages & Disadvantages
Key differences
- Incremental solutions involve small, gradual improvements.
- Radical solutions require significant changes or innovations.
| Feature | Incremental Solutions: | Radical Solutions: |
|---|---|---|
| Innovation Type: | Small improvements to existing tech | Completely new tech or approach |
| Market Impact: | Competitive but low growth potential | High growth potential, first-mover advantage |
| Risk Level: | Low risk | Higher risk |
| Time & Cost: | Low cost, quick to adaption | High cost, lengthy R&D process |
- Incremental Solution = Taking small, steady steps up a mountain with better shoes, improved gear, and optimized routes. (Gradual improvements to an existing method.)
- Radical Solution = Inventing a jetpack to fly straight to the top. (A completely new way of solving the problem that changes the game.)
Advantages & Disadvantages
Incremental Solutions
- Advantages for manufacturers / designers:
- Uses existing technology (no need for new R&D).
- Quick adjustments to regulations.
- Low risk.
- Enhances competitiveness.
- Disadvantages for manufacturers / designers:
- Frequent small updates needed to stay relevant.
- Limited market growth due to competition in a crowded space
Radical Solutions
- Advantages for manufacturers / designers:
- First-mover advantage (patents, less competition).
- High market growth potential.
- Can create new technologies and industries.
- Disadvantages for manufacturers / designers:
- Expensive and slow R&D process.
- High risk of failure.
Incremental solutions
- Smartphones: Adding better cameras or battery life to an existing phone model (e.g., iPhone 13 to iPhone 14).
- Car Industry: Improving fuel efficiency in gasoline cars without switching to electric.
- Fast Food Chains: McDonald's introducing a new burger variation using existing ingredients.
Radical solutions
- Smartphones: The first iPhone (2007) which revolutionized mobile phones by combining a touchscreen, internet access, and a digital ecosystem.
- Car Industry: The transition from gasoline cars to electric vehicles (e.g., Tesla).
- Fast Food Chains: The introduction of lab-grown meat as a sustainable alternative to traditional meat.
Don't assume that incremental changes are always cheaper. Over time, they can add up!
Why Do Companies Clean Up Their Manufacturing?
- Manufacturers clean up their factories and production processes for a few big reasons:
- To Look Good: Companies want people to think positively about their products and services. Being seen as "eco-friendly" can improve their reputation.
- To Protect Nature: They try to use fewer natural resources, waste less energy, and create less pollution.
- To Save Energy & Cut Waste: For example, installing solar panels to power factories instead of using fossil fuels.
What Influences a Company to Go Green?
- Social Reasons (People’s Opinions Matter)
- If customers care about the environment, they may only buy from eco-friendly companies.
- Public pressure (like protests or campaigns) can force companies to clean up their act.
- Economic Reasons (Money Talks)
