Sustainable Design Awards Toolkit
Section 4.4 - Efficient products
Various companies and their designers are looking at ways of making
their products more efficient
and therefore more beneficial to the user. The 'e.light' shown uses 90%
less energy than the ordinary desk lamps, in fact it only uses 3 watts!
It can be an example of more efficient design in both use and manufacture,
with regards to energy, water and materials.
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The 'Tripp Trapp' chair also offers an efficient edge over similar
products. It is designed so that it can be adjusted to fit a person
throughout their childhood. This is considered to be more efficient
as it has a much better utility for the user much like
multi-functioning products or rented products.
Sustainable design can be about making products last longer,
giving more utility and being more efficient in the eyes of
the user.  The
aim to be durable and to make a product that gives its customer/consumer
value for their money when purchasing it. Not only does the
product successfully incorporate sustainability it also successfully
integrates the necessities of safety with its primary function.
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This is considered to be more efficient as it has a much better utility
for the user much like multi-functioning products or rented products.
'Energy Star' (www.energystar.gov)
are currently producing and 
developing more sustainable products from common appliances to office equipment
to ceiling fans! 'Energy Star' seem to be one of the companies that are leading the way in
terms of improving energy efficiency in products and boast astounding statistics
compared to less sustainable companies, which can only create healthy competition
for 'Energy Star' and a healthier environment.
Statistics released on the 'Energy Star' Website
boast that:
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Energy Star
TV and VCRs take 75% less energy than their conventional
equivalent when switched off. |
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If half of US
households replaced their regular TV with one produced
by Energy Star then the change would equate to shutting
down one whole power plant! |
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The Energy Star
DVD player uses half the power of conventional DVD players.
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Energy Star
monitors emit less heat than conventional monitors, consuming
90% less energy than models without power management systems.
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Monotub Industries (www.monotub.com)
have also looked to improve their products' efficiency levels
and have done effectively with their latest product, the Titan
Washing Machine that has a European 'A' rating for wash performance
and energy efficiency. The Monotub design has a wider drum than
the average washing machine and creates space for 40% more laundry
via its removable basket. It saves water by a 'shower power'
wash and rinse system and uses a compact heating reservoir to
efficiently circulate a volume of hot water through the active
jet system. Further related information can be accessed via
the Monotub website.
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Inspirational Current Work
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Toolkit Index
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