Sustainability has become a critical issue in today’s world, and the engineering and industrial design sectors have a crucial role to play in achieving sustainable development. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the impact of climate change, environmental degradation, and resource depletion, there is growing pressure on these industries to find ways to design and manufacture products that are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. In this blog, we will focus on the power of CAD design in promoting sustainability in engineering and industrial design, and international efforts that are already underway, and we’ll explore some of the idealistic versus realistic changes that can be made to move towards a self-sustaining future.
Through this blog, we hope to provide insights into the ways in which engineering and industrial design can embrace sustainability and reduce their environmental footprint.
Today’s Challenges
The challenges faced by engineers and CAD designers in integrating sustainability into their industries can have significant impacts on people’s daily lives and the environment. For instance, the limited availability and accessibility of sustainable materials and technologies can make it difficult for designers to choose more environmentally friendly options. This, in turn, can lead to increased resource consumption, pollution, and waste, affecting the quality of life for people and the health of the planet. Let’s take a look at some of the tangible problems we face in sustainability efforts.
- Resource depletion
Manufacturing industries rely heavily on natural resources, such as water, energy, and raw materials. As these resources become scarcer, the cost of manufacturing will increase, making it more difficult and more environmentally dangerous for companies to remain competitive.
- Environmental impact
The manufacturing industry is a significant contributor to environmental pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and waste disposal. The environmental impact of manufacturing must be reduced to ensure a sustainable future.
- Supply chain transparency
The sustainability of the manufacturing industry depends on the sustainability of the entire supply chain. Companies have a difficult and pressurized obligation to ensure that their suppliers are also following sustainable practices and are transparent about their operations, despite common blockers to these efforts.
- Workforce well-being
Manufacturing can be a physically demanding job, and workers may be exposed to hazardous materials. It’s important to ensure that workers are safe and their well-being is protected.
Common Blockers
Engineers and CAD designers face some pretty overwhelming challenges when it comes to integrating sustainability into their designs, including limited availability and accessibility of sustainable materials and technologies, the trade-off between sustainability and cost-effectiveness, a general lack of awareness, slow knowledge dissemination, and a lack of globally agreed upon regulations and standards to ensure sustainable designs or manufacturability. These challenges require collaboration across different sectors to develop and implement sustainable design practices and standards.
- Cost
One of the biggest challenges facing sustainable manufacturing is cost. Many sustainable practices and technologies are more expensive than traditional methods, making it difficult for companies to justify the investment. Furthermore, newer companies that are founded with modern sustainability ideals often face challenges when trying to establish themselves in industries where existing practices prioritize cost-effectiveness, scalability, and accessibility over environmental friendliness. This is particularly challenging because these sustainability initiatives typically demand higher initial investments.
- Lack of standardization
There is currently a lack of standardization in sustainability practices, though this is changing as the effects of climate change and resource degradation become painfully more imposing, which can make it difficult for companies to compare and assess the sustainability of different products or manufacturing processes. Though this common blocker is in the process of being broken down, with an ever-decreasing amount of time left on our Doomsday clocks we are forced to ask ourselves as global industry leaders, is it being broken down fast enough? Are any of our common blockers being broken down fast enough?
- Limited availability of sustainable materials
Many sustainable materials are not yet widely available, and when they are, they may be more expensive or have limited performance capabilities compared to traditional materials.
- Limited public awareness
Many consumers may not be aware of the environmental impact of the products they purchase and may not prioritize sustainability when making purchasing decisions.
- Global supply chain complexity
The complexity of global supply chains can make it difficult for companies and consumers to ensure that sustainability standards are being met throughout the supply chain, and to hold those responsible for end decision making accountable.
Idealistic solutions
Let’s take a closer look at imaginative and forward-thinking strategies that have the potential to profoundly influence the trajectory of sustainability and the environmental implications tied to manufacturing processes. These innovative approaches serve as a catalyst for sparking our collective imagination, urging us to embrace emerging technologies, forge impactful collaborations, and adopt alternative methodologies. By exploring these visionary avenues, we can pave the way for transformative shifts in production and consumption paradigms, steering us closer to a future where environmental harmony and responsible practices take center stage.
- Investing in renewable energy
Many manufacturing companies are investing in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power to reduce their carbon footprint and decrease reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
- Improving energy efficiency
Companies are also focusing on improving energy efficiency in their manufacturing processes to reduce energy consumption and costs. This may involve using energy-efficient equipment, improving insulation, or implementing energy management systems.
- Reducing waste and recycling
Manufacturers are implementing waste reduction programs to minimize the amount of waste generated during the manufacturing process. They are also recycling and repurposing waste materials to create new products and reduce the need for raw materials.
- Sustainable product design
Many companies are designing products with sustainability in mind, including using recycled materials, reducing packaging, and designing products that are durable and repairable.
- Sustainable supply chain management
Many global manufacturers are working to ensure that their supply chains are sustainable by working more intimately with suppliers to promote environmentally friendly practices and reduce waste.
- Circular economy
A circular economy is one in which materials are kept in use for as long as possible, and waste is minimized. The manufacturing industry can play a crucial role in promoting a circular economy, but it requires significant changes in how products are designed, manufactured, and disposed.
- Embracing circular economy principles
Some manufacturers are exploring new business models that prioritize product reuse and recycling, such as take-back programs, repair and refurbishment services, and leasing or rental models.
- Reporting and transparency
Many manufacturers are being more transparent about their sustainability practices by publicly reporting on their environmental impact and setting measurable sustainability goals.
Realistic Solutions
It’s important to recognize that numerous visionary approaches might not be practically attainable for smaller manufacturers, burgeoning start-ups, or industries situated in developing nations across the globe. This prompts a critical question: How can we bridge the gap and ensure that sustainability becomes an inclusive and achievable benchmark for all? As we explore these solutions, it’s essential to uncover pathways that empower a broader spectrum of stakeholders to partake in sustainable practices, fostering a more equitable and accessible future for environmental stewardship.
- Collaborative partnerships
Collaboration between businesses, governments, and other stakeholders can help drive the development and adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices. Partnerships can also help address challenges related to sustainability, such as limited availability of sustainable materials, lack of incentives for sustainable practices, or limited accessibility to knowledge and technology.
- Innovations in technology
Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, can help improve the sustainability of manufacturing by optimizing processes and reducing waste. Robotics and automation can also reduce energy consumption and improve safety.
- Regulatory frameworks
Governments can play a critical role in promoting sustainable manufacturing practices by implementing regulatory frameworks that incentivize sustainable practices and penalize unsustainable ones. This can include setting emissions standards, mandating product labeling, and providing tax incentives for sustainable manufacturing practices, and more.
- Education and awareness
Most people don’t know where or how the product they consume are produced. Raising awareness about the environmental impact of manufacturing and the benefits of sustainable practices can help drive demand for sustainable products and practices. Education and awareness can also help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions and encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices.
- Circular economy models
Again, adopting circular economy models, where products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible, can help reduce waste and promote sustainable manufacturing. This can include designing products with recyclable materials, implementing take-back programs, and refurbishing or repurposing materials.
- Life cycle assessment
Conducting life cycle assessments of products and manufacturing processes can help companies identify areas where they can improve sustainability. This can help companies prioritize sustainability efforts and make data-driven decisions to maintain cost effectiveness and keep up with product demand.
- Public-private partnerships
Public-private partnerships can bring together government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to work towards sustainable manufacturing. This can include initiatives to promote sustainability, provide funding for sustainable manufacturing, or facilitate collaboration between businesses and governments.
Industry Leaders
This section offers a closer look at prominent figures within various industries who have undertaken the mantle of driving sustainability forward. Through their initiatives, these leaders provide tangible examples of how strategic efforts and a steadfast commitment to sustainable practices can bring about meaningful change. By examining their journeys, we gain valuable insights into the concrete impact of their endeavors on a broader scale.
Adidas
Adidas’ “Parley for the Oceans” program involves collecting plastic waste from beaches and coastal communities and using it to create products such as shoes and apparel. The program has helped remove large amounts of plastic waste from the ocean and reduce the amount of new plastic that is produced.
Tesla
Tesla’s sustainable manufacturing practices include the use of renewable energy, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to power its factories. The company also uses closed-loop manufacturing processes, which involve recycling and reusing materials throughout the production process. In addition, Tesla’s electric vehicles are, themselves, a step towards sustainable products, as electric vehicles (EVs) emit no greenhouse gases and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Unilever
Unilever’s sustainable manufacturing practices include reducing waste, improving water management, and using renewable energy. The company has also set goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and increase its use of sustainably sourced materials. Unilever’s environmental footprint is calculated using a “Sustainable Living Plan,” which measures the company’s impact across various environmental and social indicators.
Patagonia
Patagonia’s sustainable manufacturing practices include using recycled materials, reducing waste, and implementing closed-loop manufacturing processes. The company has also launched initiatives to promote environmental conservation, such as its “1% for the Planet” program, which involves donating 1% of its sales to environmental organizations.
Interface
Interface’s “Mission Zero” program involves using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and implementing closed-loop manufacturing processes. The company has also set goals to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and increase its use of renewable energy. Interface’s sustainability initiatives are guided by a set of core values, including a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and transparency.
IKEA
IKEA’s sustainable manufacturing practices include using renewable energy, promoting sustainable forestry, and reducing waste. The company has also set a goal to become a circular business by 2030, which involves designing products with circularity in mind, implementing take-back programs and product repair services, and using renewable and recycled materials. IKEA’s sustainability initiatives are guided by a set of core values, including a commitment to sustainability, affordability, and innovation. Check to see how they are holding themselves accountable for their goals and progress with their 2022 report highlights.
What can we do for our industries?
Within the CAD industry, there exists a significant opportunity for companies to actively contribute to the enhancement of sustainability within the broader domains of manufacturing and product design. As key stakeholders in these sectors (and, let’s be honest, people who need a planet to live on), our companies possess the capacity to considerably influence the shaping and trajectory of environmentally responsible practices. By strategically aligning efforts with sustainable principles, together we can act as catalysts for positive change, fostering a more harmonious relationship between industrial innovation and ecological preservation.
- Develop software tools that support sustainable design practices
CAD software companies can (and do!) develop tools that enable designers to create products with sustainable materials, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact. Design software options like CATIA and The 3DEXPERIENCE platform, easily integrate sustainability metrics that provide real-time feedback on the environmental impact of a design.
- Promote the use of sustainable materials
CAD software companies can work with manufacturers to promote the use of sustainable materials in product design. This could involve developing tools or marketplaces that enable designers to easily find and specify sustainable materials, or partnering with sustainable materials suppliers to make their products more accessible.
- Support closed-loop manufacturing processes
CAD software companies can develop tools that support closed-loop manufacturing processes, which involve recycling and reusing materials throughout the production process. For example, software could include features that enable designers to easily incorporate recycled materials into their designs.
- Encourage collaboration and information sharing
Digital platforms like the 3DEXPERIENCE enable collaboration and information sharing between designers, manufacturers, and sustainability experts, fostering an innovative ecosystem of tool development and use that encourages designers to share their designs with manufacturers and sustainability experts, and offer online forums where designers can connect with experts in sustainable design.
What can existing designers and Dassault Systèmes product users do to reach sustainability goals?
- Design for sustainability
Dassault Systèmes product users can use the company’s software tools to design products that are more sustainable, such as by reducing material waste or using more sustainable materials. For example, designers can use CATIA to perform life cycle assessments (LCA) of their designs, which can help identify areas for improvement in terms of environmental impact.
- Collaborate on sustainability initiatives
Dassault Systèmes product users can collaborate with other stakeholders in the supply chain to promote sustainability. This could involve using the 3DExperience platform to share designs with suppliers and manufacturers, or using the platform’s collaboration tools to work with sustainability experts.
- Reduce carbon footprint
Dassault Systèmes product users can use the company’s software tools to reduce their own carbon footprint. For example, users can use the 3DExperience platform to optimize manufacturing processes to minimize energy usage, or use SOLIDWORKS to design products with lower carbon footprints.
- Educate others on sustainability
Dassault Systèmes product users can use their expertise to educate others on sustainable design and manufacturing practices. For example, they can share their knowledge through webinars, workshops, or online forums. You can check out our full schedule of available trainings to get a jump start on your learning journey.
- Embrace circular design
Dassault Systèmes product users can use the company’s software tools to design products that are compatible with circular economy principles. This could involve designing products for easy disassembly and recycling or using the 3DExperience platform to optimize product lifecycle management.
In conclusion, transitioning traditional CAD user habits towards sustainability requires a fundamental shift in mindset. By adopting sustainable design principles, engaging in collaborative practices, and leveraging advanced software tools like the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, CAD users can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future. For more information, or to see how you can augment your product design and manufacturing practices to be more sustainable without sacrificing cost effectiveness, development efficiency, or product standards reach out to our Xperts!