Uncovering ecodesign dilemmas: A path to business model innovation

Sharon Prendeville, Frank O'Connor, Nancy Bocken, Conny Bakker

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

35 Citations (Scopus)
115 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore how ecodesign dilemmas contribute to a firm's ecodesign evolution. The article achieves this through empirical research into a process of ecodesign decision-making in a single firm. The study spans a timeframe of nine years. The article describes how recognising and dealing with ecodesign dilemmas fuels cycles of learning, leading the firm towards business model innovation. The study classifies a unique set of ecodesign dilemmas: hierarchies; tensions; contradictions; and oversights. Through this classification, we show how firms need to adopt a unified approach combining operational (ecodesign principles approach), tactical (ecodesign management processes) and strategic actions (business model innovation), to systematically manage ecodesign dilemmas. To support this, the article presents a framework describing key actions for operational, tactical and strategic ecodesign decision-making and the types of ecodesign dilemmas typical to each approach. Through this study, we show that the business model is critical to inform effective ecodesign decision-making and illustrate how design can drive firms towards sustainable change, from the bottom up.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1327-1339
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Cleaner Production
Volume143
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

Bibliographical note

Accepted author manuscript

Keywords

  • Ecodesign
  • Ecodesign Maturity
  • Dilemmas
  • Trade-Offs
  • Business model innovation

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