Trend: Ecodesign

Ecodesign is an approach to design considering the impact of the product on the environment. Ideally this encompasses the types of materials used, manufacturing, use and disposal.

Trend Description

The Industrial Design Society of America (IDSA) and co-sponsor Business Week just wrapped up the 2007 International Design Excellence Awards, recognizing international designers in categories such as Environments, Business and Industrial Products, Consumer Products, Ecodesign, Furniture, Medical & Scientific among many others. The winning designs are as impressive as they are varied. Here is a brief glimpse at just a couple of the noteworthy designs.

Cases

Herman Miller LEAF Strategy

Image Source idsa.org

Long known for innovative, sustainable, and thoughtful design here is yet more evidence of Herman Miller, Inc.’s design prowess. The LEAF is an LED (light emitting diode) light fixture that cuts down on energy expenditures compared to a 13 Watt fluorescent light bulb by 40% by consuming only 8-9 Watts of power. You can even choose the intensity and color of the light by running a finger across the smooth arc at the base of the lamp. Besides conserving so much energy the LEAF lamp has a truly sleek design that doesn’t betray the fact that 37% of it is made of recycled materials, and that 95% of it can later be recycled. This is truly an ecodesign enthusiast’s dream.

Midea 3KG Mini Washer

Image Source idsa.org

Designed with young professionals in China in mind, the Midea 3KG is a compact washer that probably saves as much water as it does space. The Midea 3KG has an independent water circulation system so that the owners do not have to worry about installing additional plumbing. Waste water is collected and can be disposed of in the nearest sink after the wash cycle is complete.

Green Air

Image Source idsa.org

A teardrop shaped planter and air purifier all in one the Green Air does the work of 15 air purifying plants but in a compact modern form. An integrated 115 VAC fan pumps air through the soil to the plants’ roots. This process breaks down toxins present in the air. The planter includes an integrated ambient temperature sensor that alerts the owner via color indicators (brown to blue) when and with what quantity of water the plant needs to be fed.

Trend Impact

Compact, convenient and energy saving these devices are the epitome of good eco design. Industrial design is growing more and more popular as designs correctly address the increasing eco consciousness of consumers.

Links
Herman Miller
idsa.org

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