IB Design Technology 8.1 Sustainable Development Notes

Understanding Sustainable Development in Design

1. At its core, sustainable development aims to meet human needs today without depleting resources needed for future generations.
2. In this section, we’ll explore how sustainable development shapes design decisions, balances competing stakeholder needs, and integrates environmental, social, and economic considerations.

What is Sustainable Development?

1. In design, this means creating products, systems, and solutions that are resource-efficient, environmentally responsible, and socially equitable, all while remaining functional and accessible.
2. Designers often face competing demands from stakeholders, such as customers, manufacturers, and regulators.

Holistic and Systematic Approaches to Sustainable Design

Sustainable design requires a holistic and systematic approach, meaning designers must consider multiple interconnected factors throughout a product’s lifecycle.

1. Aesthetic and Cultural Considerations

1. Products that align with cultural values and aesthetics are more likely to be accepted by users.
2. Incorporating traditional patterns into textiles can enhance their appeal in specific markets while preserving cultural heritage.

2. Cost and Usability

1. Affordability and usability must go hand in hand.
2. A sustainable product should be cost-effective without compromising functionality.

Energy and Material Efficiency

1. Sustainability begins with choosing energy-efficient production methods and renewable materials.
2. For some manufacturers, using recycled aluminum instead of virgin aluminum reduces energy consumption by up to 95%.

Health and Social Impacts

1. Designers must consider the health and social implications of their products.
2. Considering the avoidance of toxic chemicals in paints or plastics protects both workers and consumers.

The Triple Bottom Line: Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability

Sustainability is often conceptualized through thetriple bottom line (TBL), which evaluates success across three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social.