34. MINIMUM AND CLEAN ENERGY DURING USAGE

Products that require minimal or no energy during use support both ecological and economic sustainability by lowering energy costs and reducing environmental impact. Designs should minimise energy consumption in operation and eliminate energy use when idle. Factors such as lightweight construction, efficient mobility, and well-insulated components further reduce energy requirements. Ideally, products should utilise clean energy sources, including wind, water, solar power, and low-sulphur options such as natural gas or low-sulphur coal. Built-in features can foster sustainable consumption—for example, integrated battery chargers discourage the use of disposable batteries. Products powered by clean energy not only reduce environmental impact but also educate consumers, promoting a culture of sustainable consumption and enhancing cultural sustainability.

35. MINIMUM CONSUMABLES

Products that use minimal consumables reduce the materials and energy required to produce those consumables, supporting both ecological and economic sustainability. Usage can be optimised through thoughtful design cues, such as calibration marks or measured indicators that guide precise consumption. Defaulting to the most sustainable operational settings—for example, energy-efficient modes in automatic systems—further ensures responsible and efficient use of consumables.

36. SAFE TO USE

Products that pose minimal or no risk to user health and safety enhance social sustainability and promote well-being. Poorly designed products can violate safety standards and, in extreme cases, cause serious harm. For instance, emissions from common household items containing formaldehyde can degrade indoor air quality, posing risks to occupants.

37. CUSTOMIZABLE

Customized products enable users to eliminate superfluous features, enhancing cost-effectiveness and supporting economic sustainability. By involving the user in the design process, customization strengthens the bond with the product, extending its lifespan and promoting ecological sustainability. This participatory approach also fosters a mindful culture of consumption, reinforcing cultural sustainability. 

38. EASILY UPGRADEABLE

Products designed for easy repair or upgrades enjoy longer lifespans, enhancing ecological sustainability. By encouraging mindful maintenance and renewal, they also foster a culture of sustainable consumption, supporting cultural sustainability.  

39. CLASSIC DESIGN

Easy-to-repair and upgradeable products last longer, supporting ecological sustainability, while fostering a culture of mindful consumption that strengthens cultural sustainability.

40. MINIMUM AND LOCAL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

Locally repairable and maintainable products reinforce ecological, social, economic, and cultural sustainability. Ecologically, they reduce material flows by eliminating the need for replacement. Local repair networks minimise transport, making the system energy-efficient. Repairs also provide livelihoods for local communities, supporting social sustainability. By encouraging users to maintain rather than discard products, this approach challenges the prevailing “use-and-throw” mindset, fostering cultural sustainability.