The future of eco-design

Materials and creative solutions: the future of eco-design

Design, functionality and careful use of resources – how can they be brought together? Eco-design seeks an answer: a concept that combines creative solutions with a mindful choice of materials. In this article we take a look at the world of eco-design, present current approaches and show which materials play a role.

What is eco-design?

Eco-design (also known as ‘ecodesign’) is an approach in which environmental aspects are taken into account right from the development of products and processes. It is not only about the choice of materials, but also about how production methods are designed – for example to avoid waste – and about products that can be used and repaired for a long time.

The choice of materials also plays a central role at ORGANICATION: our range includes clothing made from materials such as organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell and recycled fibres – certified to GOTS, OCS, GRS, RCS or RWS depending on the item.

Materials: the building blocks of eco-design

Eco-design often uses materials that are renewable, recycled or recyclable. Here are a few examples:

TENCEL™ Lyocell
TENCEL™ Lyocell is made from wood cellulose; according to the manufacturer Lenzing, the wood comes from certified or controlled sources. The fibre is highly versatile – in fashion as well as home textiles. Find out more on our TENCEL™ page.

Linen
Linen is a time-honoured material with a fresh appeal. It is made from the flax plant and is known for its durability and breathability. Find out more on our linen page.

Recycled polyester
Recycled polyester is made from used PET bottles or textile scraps. It combines the properties of synthetic materials with the idea of reuse. Find out more on our recycled polyester page.

Pineapple leather (Piñatex)
Piñatex, an alternative to conventional leather, is made from the leaves of pineapple plants – an agricultural by-product.

Cork
Cork is obtained from the bark of the cork oak, which can be harvested without felling the tree. The material is light, attractive and durable.

Creative solutions in eco-design

Alongside materials, creative approaches play a decisive role. Here are some inspiring examples:

Modular designs
Products that are easy to take apart and repair make reuse easier. Furniture with interchangeable components is one example of this design philosophy.

Zero-waste strategies
Designers and manufacturers are working on patterns and production processes that create as little offcut waste as possible – and allow fabric scraps to be reused.

3D printing
3D printing makes it possible to produce items on demand. Printing materials such as bioplastics or recycled plastic open up new possibilities.

Biomimicry
This approach takes its cue from nature and tries to imitate its mechanisms. One example is the development of fabrics that repel water like shark skin or are self-cleaning like lotus leaves.

The role of consumers

While designers and companies develop new solutions, consumers also play an important role. Much begins with a mindful purchasing decision. A few tips:

• Quality over quantity: buy fewer but higher-quality products and use them for longer.
• Check certifications: labels such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fairtrade are independently verified and make information on materials and production traceable.
• Pass things on rather than throwing them away: clothing you no longer wear can be donated, sold or taken to textile recycling.

Where eco-design is heading

The combination of material choice and creative solutions is increasingly shaping the way products are designed. The following topics are gaining in importance:

• Circular economy: products are designed so that their materials can be reused as far as possible after use.
• Digitalisation: technologies such as digital product passports can make supply chains more transparent.
• Collaboration: cross-industry partnerships encourage new ideas and pool knowledge.

Eco-design is more than a trend – it is a way of thinking that brings together function, aesthetics and careful use of resources.

At ORGANICATION we focus on timeless design, durable workmanship and certified materials. Find out more on our materials and certificates pages.