3.2.2 Cradle-to-Grave

Designers evaluate the environmental impacts of a product or service. In the case of a product, the environmental impact is assessed from raw material extraction and processing (cradle), through the manufacture, distribution and use, to the recycling or final disposal of the materials (grave).

Design in Context

C3.2 Life-cycle analysis (HL only)

By the end of this topic, you should be able to...

explain the life-cycle analysis inventory stages (cradle-to-grave) and the materials and energy usage that go into these processes: raw material extraction; manufacture; distribution and transport; use and maintenance; and disposal and recycling.

Guiding Question

Why should designers consider the effects a product has on the environment?

Linking Questions

How can the selection of manufacturing techniques influence the outcomes of a life-cycle analysis? (A4.1)
Which aspects of a life-cycle analysis are most affected by material selection? (B3.1)
What is the impact of selecting a particular production system on a life-cycle analysis? (B4.1)
To what extent is it the responsibility of the designer to ensure a product achieves a positive life-cycle analysis? (C1.1)
What is the role of the life-cycle analysis in determining if a product has been developed successfully using a design for sustainability strategy? (C2.1)
How can a life-cycle analysis help designers to make decisions when engaging with design for a circular economy? (C2.2)
To what extent do design for manufacture strategies affect the outcomes of a life-cycle analysis? (C4.1)