Exploring Systemic Forces That Influence Sustainable Design Transitions

Abstract

In this research some systemic forces to sustainable design are described and mapped out, along with key areas, dimensions and stakeholders. These results are visualized in a causal loop diagram (CLD), which was the outcome of a group model building approach supported by a literature review. Within the proposed system model, represented by the system-level variables and their relationships within the CLD, some potential leverage points that can help make product design better contribute to sustainability are identified and described. These can be found in the balancing and reinforcing feedback loops of the CLD as well as the mapping to societal dimensions of sustainability transitions and stakeholder groups. Among the stakeholder groups, business managers, scientific researchers and engineering designers can be tied to the design community. Future research is proposed to build on these initial results to deepen the knowledge about the systemic drivers and barriers and leverage the contribution of design practice to sustainable development.

Assessing Systemic Drivers and Barriers to Sustainable Design Transitions: Relationship Strengths and Research Gaps

“…Prior research mapped out and proposed some critical systemic elements that connect sustainable design practices to sustainability outcomes using a group model building (GMB) technique (Watz et al, 2021). The result of this work was a causal loop diagram (CLD) that identifies systemic variables that influence sustainable design and depicts how those variables qualitatively influence one another as part of an extensive system, with its variables and relationships summarized in Table 1.…”

“…Given this dilemma, the successful promotion of sustainable product development and its benefits depends on the concept being made clear, concise, and systematic (Baumgartner and Rauter, 2017). Prior research sheds light on the forces that influence sustainability within and around the context of product development activities (Watz et al, 2021). However, the significant influences on sustainable development remain somewhat abstract, as they are difficult to quantify.…”