Better Things: Materials for Sustainable Product Design

Better Things: Materials for Sustainable Product Design is a guide for product designers, manufacturers, and consumers wishing to make better and more informed decisions about materials, tackling the lazy greenwashing terminology we see every day. It includes interviews with industry experts, photos, diagrams, environmental impact data, and general material properties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

The drive for greater transparency and demonstrable environmental benefits in product design is gaining momentum. This movement is fueled by emerging legislation and standards, as well as consumer demand for more sustainable products and clear marketing. In response, Daniel Liden has authored "Better Things: Materials for Sustainable Product Design," a comprehensive guide aimed at helping product designers, manufacturers, and consumers make informed choices about materials.

The book is organized into six chapters, each dedicated to a specific material category: plastics, textiles, metals, ceramics, glass, wood, and paper. Additionally, a seventh chapter explores emerging sustainable technologies. Within each chapter, Liden includes interviews with industry experts, alongside photographs, diagrams, environmental impact data, and comprehensive information about the properties and characteristics of each material.

The goal of "Better Things" is to empower readers with the knowledge and tools they need to select materials that have a lower environmental impact. By providing a wealth of information and insights, the book aims to dispel the often-used but misleading terms such as "recycled," "bioplastic," and "sustainable," offering a clear understanding of what these terms truly mean and how they can be applied in product design.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of transparency in product marketing. Liden argues that consumers deserve to know the environmental impact of the products they purchase, and that manufacturers should be held accountable for their claims. He suggests that product labels should include clear and comprehensive information about the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the environmental benefits of the product.

Furthermore, Liden emphasizes the need for product designers to consider the entire life cycle of a product, from its production to its disposal. He encourages designers to choose materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or have a low energy consumption during production. By designing products that are sustainable from start to finish, Liden believes that we can create a more circular economy and reduce our environmental footprint.

Another important aspect of "Better Things" is the discussion of emerging sustainable technologies. Liden highlights the latest developments in materials science, such as biodegradable plastics, recycled metals, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. He provides insights into how these technologies can be integrated into product design to create even more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

In conclusion, "Better Things: Materials for Sustainable Product Design" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in creating more sustainable and environmentally friendly products. By providing a comprehensive guide to materials, their properties, and their environmental impact, the book empowers readers to make informed choices that benefit both the environment and the consumer. As the demand for sustainable products continues to grow, it is essential that we embrace transparency, innovation, and collaboration in product design to create a better future for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 598g
Dimension: 240 x 166 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529419689