Short answer
Integrate the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) into all stages of the design and manufacturing process, from initial concept to end-of-life.
- Field
- Resource Management
- Source
- Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering (2013)
- Method
- Literature Review
- Evidence
- Strong effect
Sustainable manufacturing integrates economic viability, environmental responsibility, and social equity into production processes and systems. This resource management research insight is drawn from a 2013 study published in Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering. Using Literature review, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: Integrate the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) into all stages of the design and manufacturing process, from initial concept to end-of-life.
Sustainable Manufacturing: Balancing Economic, Environmental, and Social Needs
Sustainable manufacturing integrates economic viability, environmental responsibility, and social equity into production processes and systems.
Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering · 2013
Key Findings
- 01Sustainable manufacturing requires a multi-faceted approach considering economic, environmental, and social factors.
- 02Research has advanced in planning, development, analysis, and improvement of manufacturing processes.
- 03Challenges remain in facility operation, production planning, scheduling, and supply chain design for sustainability.
- 04Manufacturing is being reimagined as a driver of innovation for future societal needs through strategic sustainable practices.
Application
Design takeaway
Integrate the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) into all stages of the design and manufacturing process, from initial concept to end-of-life.
How to apply
When designing a new product or optimizing an existing manufacturing process, explicitly map out the economic, environmental, and social consequences of each design choice.
Project actions
- 01When researching materials, look for their environmental impact (e.g., embodied energy, recyclability).
- 02Consider the energy consumption and waste generated by your chosen manufacturing methods.
- 03Think about the safety and well-being of the people involved in making and using your product.
Method & Evidence
Variables
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- +Comprehensive review of engineering research in sustainable manufacturing.
- +Addresses both process and system levels.
- +Identifies key challenges and opportunities.
Limitations
It can be challenging to quantify all aspects of sustainability accurately, especially social impacts.
Reliability & validity
The reliability of the findings depends on the quality and breadth of the reviewed literature. Validity is supported by the consensus among multiple authors and the journal's peer-review process.
Think critically
How can the 'social' aspect of sustainable manufacturing be more effectively measured and integrated into design decisions?
Design Principles
"Design for Sustainability: Consider the full lifecycle impact of a product and its manufacturing process on economic, environmental, and social systems."
Designers and engineers must consider the broader impact of their creations beyond immediate functionality. This holistic approach ensures long-term viability and addresses societal expectations for responsible production.
What This Means for Your Design
Making things in a way that is good for the planet, good for people, and still makes money.
How to use in your project
- 1.Use this research to justify the selection of sustainable materials or manufacturing processes in your design project.
- 2.Cite this paper when discussing the importance of balancing economic, environmental, and social factors in your design decisions.
Add to My Project
Quick Cite
Paragraph starter
This research highlights the critical need for sustainable manufacturing, which involves a simultaneous consideration of economic, environmental, and social implications. By integrating these factors into the design and production of goods, we can move towards more responsible and innovative industrial practices that meet future societal needs.
Source
Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering
A Review of Engineering Research in Sustainable Manufacturing
journal · 2013
View sourceQuestions About This Research
- What does the research say about sustainable manufacturing: balancing economic, environmental, and social needs?
- Integrate the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) into all stages of the design and manufacturing process, from initial concept to end-of-life. Evidence: Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering (2013).
- Why does "Sustainable Manufacturing: Balancing Economic, Environmental, and Social Needs" matter for design?
- Designers and engineers must consider the broader impact of their creations beyond immediate functionality. This holistic approach ensures long-term viability and addresses societal expectations for responsible production.
- How can designers apply this research?
- Integrate the triple bottom line (people, planet, profit) into all stages of the design and manufacturing process, from initial concept to end-of-life.
- What were the main findings?
- Sustainable manufacturing requires a multi-faceted approach considering economic, environmental, and social factors.. Research has advanced in planning, development, analysis, and improvement of manufacturing processes.. Challenges remain in facility operation, production planning, scheduling, and supply chain design for sustainability.. Manufacturing is being reimagined as a driver of innovation for future societal needs through strategic sustainable practices.
- What research method was used?
- Literature Review.
- How strong is the evidence?
- Evidence strength is rated Strong effect, based on a 2013 journal from Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering.
- What should I do differently in my next project?
- When designing a new product or optimizing an existing manufacturing process, explicitly map out the economic, environmental, and social consequences of each design choice.
- What are the limitations?
- The review is based on research published up to 2013, and newer advancements may not be covered. The focus is primarily on engineering research, potentially overlooking other contributing fields.