ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights where and how the boundaries of design for environment can be pushed. It offers some snapshots based on 'sustainable' design. The prevailing message is characterised by the need for more radical strategies that maximise and enhance environmental quality and quality of life while pursuing sensible economic objectives. New materials and technologies have the potential to significantly improve the eco-efficiency of products. The evolution of polymeric materials, is generating new products that are lighter and stronger. Increasing competition in the global market is forcing companies to increase the value of their products by adding a greater service component. Several companies offer maintenance, assistance and product take-back as value-added features to their services and products. Designers are at the significant point of conjunction between technological and cultural worlds. They are therefore in a privileged position to capture and act on signals for change.
