How is 'sustainability' defined in product design?

Sustainability in product design refers to the practice of creating products with a strong emphasis on minimizing negative impacts on the environment. This involves considering various factors such as the materials used, the production process, energy consumption, and the product's lifecycle, including how it can be reused or recycled at the end of its life.

When sustainability is integrated into product design, designers aim to create solutions that not only meet consumer needs but do so without depleting natural resources or causing harm to ecosystems. This holistic approach helps promote long-term viability for both the products and the planet. By prioritizing environmental impact, sustainable design seeks to balance functionality, usability, and ecological responsibility, ensuring that products have a positive or neutral effect on the world we live in.