This paper presents a perspective study on governance for Cradle to Cradle (C2C). The study aims to provide insight in governance aspects of C2C initiatives in various European regions that participated in the Interreg IVC C2C Network project (C2CN). It builds on the Governance for C2C Framework1, presented at the C2CN thematic seminar on July […]
Traditionally, designers of buildings try to minimize their negative effects on the environment by attempting to reduce their impact on the ecology to zero. These “green” or “sustainable” building practices are ultimately “less bad” approaches that focus on reducing impacts and minimizing footprints. Ironically the message from this philosophy is that it would be best […]
In 2002 William McDonough and Michael Braungart created quite a stir with the publication of their book Cradle to Cradle®, Remaking the Way We Make Things. In their book they advocate completely new basic premises for the design and development of products, using only safe and entirely recyclable raw materials. This makes waste food, in […]
The Dutch documentary Waste is Food, translated into English
Abstract Eco-effectiveness and cradle-to-cradle design present an alternative design and production concept to the strategies of zero emission and eco-efficiency. Where eco-efficiency and zero emission seek to reduce the unintended negative consequences of processes of production and consumption, eco-effectiveness is a positive agenda for the conception and production of goods and services that incorporate social, […]
This book from William McDonough’s and Michael Braungart, is a manifesto calling for the transformation of human industry through ecologically intelligent design. Through historical sketches on the roots of the industrial revolution; commentary on science, nature and society; descriptions of key design principles; and compelling examples of innovative products and business strategies already reshaping the […]
Doing the right things right. It’s not as easy as it sounds. Working smart may be easy, but working smart without perspective or guid- ing principles can ultimately become an ef- ficient pursuit of the wrong goals. Consider historical approaches to industrial prob- lem solving: Applying engineering strategies to make a wasteful or hazardous process more […]
Cradle to Cradle® design is an ecologically intelligent approach to architecture and industry that involves materials, buildings and patterns of settlement which are wholly healthful and restorative. Unlike cradle-to-grave systems, Cradle to Cradle® design sees human systems as nutrient cycles in which every material can support life. Materials designed as biological nutri- ents provide nourishment […]
Pursuing positive aspirations at every level of commerce anchors intelligent design deep within corporate business strategy. And when good design drives the business agenda, the path toward sustainability turns from end-of-pipe solutions to creating value with innovative product design…. More information about the paper: Corporate Environmental Strategy, August 2002 GreenMoney Journal, June/July 2003 *only the […]
The triple bottom line has been, and remains, a useful tool for integrating sustainability into the business agenda. Balancing traditional economic goals with social and environmental concerns, it has created a new measure of corporate performance. A business strategy focused solely on the bottom line, however, can obscure opportunities to pursue innovation and create value […]
