41. Reduced Material Complexity 

Products composed of a single material, or as few materials as possible, simplify end-of-life management compared with composites. Natural materials biodegrade, while technical nutrients can be recycled into new product cycles, reducing waste and supporting ecological sustainability.

42.  Biodegradable

Biodegradable materials—whether natural or engineered to break down through microbial activity—enhance ecological sustainability. Products made from such materials minimise environmental impact at the end of their lifecycle, ensuring responsible disposal.

43. Easy to Disassemble 

Most products comprise multiple components, and designing them for easy disassembly at the end of their life enhances sustainability. Individual components can be cleaned, repaired, or repurposed, while others can be disposed of responsibly. By facilitating disassembly, products reduce waste, reintroduce materials into new life cycles, and support ecological sustainability. Disassembled parts retain economic value through reuse or repurposing, contributing to economic sustainability. Products with accessible, standardised mechanical joineries—dismantlable with universal tools—allow more effective end-of-life disassembly than welded, glued, or soldered connections.

44. Reusable 

Products designed for reuse enhance ecological sustainability by reducing the need for fresh material inputs and avoiding down-cycling, which produces lower-quality, less functional items. By encouraging users to reuse, these products also challenge planned and perceived obsolescence, fostering a culture of mindful consumption and supporting cultural sustainability.

45.  Recyclable 

Recyclable products support both ecological and economic sustainability. Their materials reduce pressure on natural resources while retaining economic value through reintroduction into new product cycles. Products designed for primary recycling—returning materials to the same product line—are preferable to those requiring secondary or tertiary recycling. Ease of disassembly is essential, particularly when isolating potentially toxic components.

46. Promotes/Uses Local Recycling Systems 

Most 'waste' ends up in landfills, where decomposition is limited and environmental impact persists. Products designed for easy sorting within local collection and recycling systems—through clear identification of recyclable components and simple disassembly—reduce landfill waste and support all dimensions of sustainability. They create livelihoods for communities engaged in waste collection and sorting, enhancing social and economic sustainability. By protecting ecosystems, they strengthen ecological sustainability, and by encouraging a culture of sorting and recycling, they positively influence cultural sustainability.