The roles of designers have drastically changed in the modern world. We, as designers, have a responsibility to shape the environment around us and adapt to the new landscape. Here, Made Somewhere takes a look into sustainability and the design process.
Have you ever heard of the term ‘Cradle to Grave’? It refers to the life cycle of a product (or its packaging), from creation to disposal. The term is used in a number of contexts, but most typically in a company’s responsibility for dealing with their products in regards to the environment.
It’s becoming an important issue in terms of corporate responsibility. Responsibility shouldn’t be placed only on the shoulders of consumers for disposing of packaging and products in an environmentally sound way. Companies have to take this on.
Designers can too. As designers, it is our responsibility to take the notion of ‘Cradle to Grave’ and apply it to our design thinking in order to leave as little negative impact on the environment as possible. Print and packaging design are major contributors to this design thinking that can be impacted greatly through environmentally conscious design.
So what can designers do to aid in sustainable design? A few ways:
Get eco partners!
Partner with environmentally friendly suppliers (printers and production companies) who are committed to limiting waste and investing in appropriate materials and methods.
Understand and utilise
Understand what materials and processes will deliver the most sustainable outcomes. Select products that are FSC-certified, avoid solvent-based inks and replace these with vegetable-based inks, use recycled paper and use printers that are ‘Green Stamp Certified’.
Be a sustainable studio
It may seem common sense but small elements around the studio and office help. Ensure your studio or office is equipped with recycling facilities, use keep cups, install energy-efficient lighting and products and avoid printing emails.
Let’s create the world we want to live in. We’re in this together.