Co-Investigating for Sustainable Futures—Interventions for Extending the Lifetime of Connected Products

Abstract

Given the urgent need for transitions towards sustainability in the design and manufacturing sectors that adhere to environmental limits, this study focuses on how to create targeted interventions within existing socio technical regimes that catalyse these transitions in the area of connected (smart) products. This category, which depends on both the hardware and software industries, introduces unique sustainability challenges and opportunities. Designing and manufacturing durable products requires a collaborative approach, given that the production of hardware and software is intricately linked to a global supply chain deeply embedded within the current production ecosystem and mass production values. To improve understanding and disseminate knowledge about product lifecycle extension, this work presents a co-investigation tool. This tool is based on insights from previous interviews and literature reviews, and it aims to promote collaboration among industry experts, such as designers and engineers, in how to implement product life extension strategies. A key aspect of our methodology is incorporating the perspectives of these industry players and acknowledging their pivotal role in realising sustainable solutions. Employing this conversation tool, we facilitated five focus groups with industry professionals to identify and formulate strategies for extending the lifespan of products. This paper details the design of the tool and the insights derived from the focus groups. The results of this study provide insightful pathways for firms engaged in sustainable product design and manufacturing, steering them towards a more sustainable future.