By integrating environmental considerations into the upfront product design, a company can increase efficiency, reduce waste of materials and energy, and reduce costs. Toolkit gives companies the tools needed to incorporate environmental attributes early into product design. Incorporating environmental attributes can result in reduced materials use and waste, improved designs, reduced future liabilities and other efficiencies. This toolkit is designed to allow integration of DfE into existing design practices. It is practical to use and does not require a large time commitment.
Design engineers can meet as a group to use the toolkit.
The toolkit will help designers develop a numerical score for a product that shows them where the product is strong and where it needs improvement with regards to environmental concerns. In addition to the DfE tool, this kit includes reference data and information. Designers can refer to these resources, as well as add their own. Mr. Yarwood has previously worked with MnTAP advising Minnesota companies in developing environmentally responsible processes. Mr. Yarwood is currently a graduate fellow in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Minnesota and plans to obtain a M.S. and Ph.D. in the field of Environmental Engineering.