The big question is can we design new products while still facilitating an environmentally sustainable future? At Bortz product design we would like to think so. I was recently sent by one of my clients, a guide to recyclability of plastic packaging by the design decisions we make. I applaud and thank my client for bringing this to my attention as it is an important and pressing issue. The brochure is a good piece of literature and interestingly titled “Recyclability by Design”. While it is very important that designers keep all these principles in mind, it is vitally important that all stake holders such as marketing and purchasing departments also be aware of this guide and follow its principles. The summary guide follows 5 main principles and then provides some useful tables for best practices with mixing and matching materials for bottles, caps and labels to make them easier to sort and recycle. The main 5 principles are:
Worldwide companies produce so many single use plastic packaging items. People with their good intentions are doing their best at recycling. Now with this valuable information we can facilitate making the process of recycling easier. With this, we can close the loop and use the recycled material as a more valuable asset, which is easier to reclaim and easier to use. The summary guide and its full version are available from the RECOUP website at http://www.recoup.org/p/173/download-centre and I would recommend that all stakeholders take a read, at least of the guide summary, if not the full document.
Moving forwards we will endeavour to stay on top of environmental issues, advise and recommend to all clients environmentally sustainable options for their designs and products while continuing to respect each client’s values and choices.
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How do you think collaboration across different departments—like design, marketing, and purchasing—can enhance sustainability efforts, and what challenges do you think might arise when trying to align everyone on the same eco-friendly goals? regards <a href="https://jakarta.telkomuniversity.ac.id/en/alumni-gathering-chapter-jakarta-2024/">Telkom University Jakarta</a>
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dsaf
3/7/2025 07:57:46 pm
How do you think collaboration across different departments—like design, marketing, and purchasing—can enhance sustainability efforts, and what challenges do you think might arise when trying to align everyone on the same eco-friendly goals? regards <a href="https://jakarta.telkomuniversity.ac.id/en/alumni-gathering-chapter-jakarta-2024/">Telkom University Jakarta</a>
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3/23/2025 03:41:55 pm
Excellent point about the need for cross-departmental awareness, not just design.
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AuthorGary Bortz, Director of Bortz Product Design Categories |