Week 1. Introduction: The materials challenge and the importance of product design for a Circular Economy. Focus on economic and social drivers and barriers to change.
Week 2. Design for Reuse: Towards the production of long-lasting products with reliable performance and minimum maintenance requirements. Product use intensification in the Sharing Economy.
Week 3. Design for Repair: Allows quick and efficient access to key components and connections. Making products fit for use again in a time- and resource-effective way.
Week 4. Design for Remanufacture: Re-manufactured products should look and perform as new. This implies a complex new system of reverse logistics, cleaning and conditioning facilities, as well as a shift in client and consumer mentality.
Week 5. Design for Recycle: Eventually most products will be broken down into individual materials. Choices such as the use of composites or chemical connections affects the recyclability and economic value of materials.
Week 6. Conclusion: Thinking in loops. Creating sustainable value through strategic product and business design for a Circular Economy.