The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of I... more The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of Industrial Products founded the Observatory of Eco-Pack (Oep) in 2005. The Oep is a strategic body that joins theoretical research with teaching: part of the pack screening is updated by the students of the course, so they can work together with the researchers and develop their critical sense. The OEP conducts a complete screening of the packaging production sector according to specific methodological choices that examine many aspects and consists of a qualitative part (coherence in forms, dismounting...) and a quantitative one (simplified LCA). The cross analysis of all data provides a map of the general characteristics and of problems of packaging on the market. This complete analysis gives the chance to improve existing packaging and begin the definition of new guidelines to design packaging ex-novo. At last, it is possible to obtain specific proposals for each sector, in order to design a new sustainable pack
The sustainable transition of the regional and urban systems in which we live represents a crucia... more The sustainable transition of the regional and urban systems in which we live represents a crucial challenge for our societies and requires a new integrated vision of the social, environmental, cultural, political and economic dimensions. Territorial systems can be considered as socio-technical systems, made up of a complex network of infrastructure and facilities and also of human interactions and activities. So far, the sustainable innovation of socio-technical systems has often been concerned with the introduction of sustainable technological solutions, but today it is clear how specific solutions must be framed from a systems perspective. The paper aims at providing a comprehensive analysis of the design tools able to support this systemic transition, starting from the analysis of the macro-strategies developed by the transition studies, in particular the Multi-level Perspective model. Through a cross-analysis with the main design fields related to the systemic design domain, fo...
ABSTRACT Thermal insulating plasters are an important means to face the energy efficiency issues ... more ABSTRACT Thermal insulating plasters are an important means to face the energy efficiency issues in building field, above all in renovation processes. New solutions, such as nanotechnology or aerogel based plasters, could make a significant contribution to this field, reaching higher level of thermal performance and reducing needed thickness. But, in order to be really suitable for the market, new plaster solutions have to answer to specific economical and technical needs. This research provides an overall analysis of thermal insulating plasters in European market, comparing existing products according to technical specifications and economical features. The main goal of this survey is to drive researches in thermal plasters fields towards innovative appli- cation, creating new plasters able to meets real market and end-users demands. Technical cross assessment considers three main factors, defined according to European standards: volume mass powder, dry bulk density of hardened mortar and thermal conductivity. Benchmarking analysis compares prices per unit, in order to relate material quantity to the achieving of common Rx value. Cross assessments results allow to define thermal, technical and economical requirements that new thermal insulating plasters have to meet to be suitable for European volume market.
Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association, Jan 24, 2015
Approximately 2 million chronic haemodialysis patients produce over 2 000 000 tons of waste per y... more Approximately 2 million chronic haemodialysis patients produce over 2 000 000 tons of waste per year that includes about 600 000 tons of potentially hazardous waste. The aim of the present study was to analyse the characteristics of the waste that is produced through chronic haemodialysis in an effort to identify strategies to reduce its environmental and financial impact. The study included three dialysis machines and disposables for bicarbonate dialysis, haemodiafiltration (HFR) and lactate dialysis. Hazardous waste is defined as waste that comes into contact with bodily fluids. The weight and cost of waste management was evaluated by various policies of differentiation, ranging from a careful-optimal differentiation to a careless one. The amount of time needed for optimal management was recorded in 30 dialysis sessions. Non-hazardous materials were assessed for potential recycling. The amount of plastic waste that is produced per dialysis session ranges from 1.5 to 8 kg (from 1.1...
Two design solutions are described to suggest possible approaches for sustainable
development i... more Two design solutions are described to suggest possible approaches for sustainable
development in the field of energy. They concretely integrate production culture and design research in order to reveal the connections and congruencies, today still hidden, between artificial production and Nature. The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise in synergy with the resources found on the local territory; the second case deals with the need to display products at environment-friendly fairs.
The challenge is to make even our daily actions sustainable, starting with our industrial
energy needs. This is why social education is the most important element: a change in behaviors and greater sharing in the application of new lifestyles.
To solve the waste problem we could configure new networks among different companies in geographi... more To solve the waste problem we could configure new networks among different companies in geographic proximity. This allows to establish relations that lead to zero emission by implementing a sustainable management of wastes.
If we have a design methodology that values the quality of the outputs, we need to make
these potentialities concrete by providing a system with available resources and their possible users.
It deals with the design and establishment of a Database that can be consulted: this acquires and organizes the information about the outputs produced and the inputs required as resources, the manufacturers present in the community. The goal is to organize data into a system in order to create connections between outputs produced and inputs required.
Humans have always looked at Nature as a model to answer their questions. Today our task is to LE... more Humans have always looked at Nature as a model to answer their questions. Today our task is to LEARN FROM NATURE not shapes but the efficiency of processes and, most important, the richness of complexity and the power of relationships: fundamental conditions for any living system. If they are adopted in the world of design they will lead to a change in the paradigm that allows to think by connections.
Systemic thought is based on this model: the identification of a reality consisting of QUALITY that is often unquantifiable, of CONNECTIONS that are apparently invisible but indispensable for life. It involves looking not at "things" but at systems of relationships that give concreteness to what we are observing, from the infinitely small to the infinitely large.
A “wisdom” that allows us to more easily develop sustainable scenarios, prefiguring appropriate answers to the needs of the present without compromising or jeopardizing the development prospects for future generations.
TWO DESIGN SOLUTIONS conducted in the Program of Master of Science Degree in Ecodesign at the Politecnico di Torino, in collaboration with ZERI foundation. They suggest possible approaches for sustainable development in the field of energy and production processes. They demonstrate HOW SYSTEMIC THINKING IN DESIGN CAN
EMPOWER the relationship between human beings and nature, culture and design, production and environment, aims to join economic, social and environmental demands.
The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise, in synergy with the resources found on the local territory, the specific goal of research is to eliminate production waste of Agrindustria by opening up the industrial system, in which the outputs of the company become resource for local
enterprises.
The second case deals with the possibility to production steel ball by using natural surface agents instead of solvents coming from petroleum; the results is not polluted outputs to use as raw material (INPUT) for other productions on territory and the concrete possibility to manage wastewater (now expensive waste) in a sort of natural matabolization.
By systemic approach and opening up the company to the territory it's possible to reduce the costs of waste just because they have interesting and producing quality and the design have the responsability to suggest how to exploit them.
Proceedings of Management of Technologies - Step to Sustainable Production Conference, 2010
In the light of the growing concern about climate change, an important part of resource exploitat... more In the light of the growing concern about climate change, an important part of resource exploitation from industrial society is connected to energy use. Integration of companies through material and energy exchanges lead to a more efficient use of resources as well as financial, social and environmental benefits for the local entities involved, as Systemic Design approach proves.
This research analyzes seven best-practices in Sweden, which since the Eighties realizes green energy plants, to understand key-drivers and barriers. Research coordinators can facilitate the creation of selfsustaining network of companies.
The large-scale retail trade has been providing its contribution towards environmental ... more The large-scale retail trade has been providing its contribution towards environmental sustainability through different means, principally on the basis of consumer demand.
However, there are still large gaps in this area, as the best practices that can be found
are sporadic cases, as opposed to standard practice.
The analysis of case studies reveals several environmental problem areas: the geographical location of dealers, the adjustment of the retail trade to current consumer trends, environmental certification, packaging, transport, waste, energy expenditure and the limited success of sustainable solutions/products among the public. As part of this research we wanted to pursue the latter aspect, identifying specific lines of development, because it is essential to work on the choices and behaviour of costumers, who in turn affect those of large-scale retail.
The aim is to induce consumers to enter the system of values proposed by the product and then create a link of loyalty.
Proceedings of the International Symposium on Sustainable Design (ISSD), 2011
Packaging, as a symbolic expression of a brand and of the consumer who recognizes him/herself in ... more Packaging, as a symbolic expression of a brand and of the consumer who recognizes him/herself in the purchased product, is now full of features that go beyond containment and protection, becoming a means of communication and education in the field of environmental sustainability.
Although the principle of eco-compatibility should be long-acquired by now, the market still has many shortcomings from this point of view. The field of packaging design has not been able to renew itself for reduced environmental impacts.
This research starts from the analysis of the criticalities of present industrial packaging to propose a new approach to sustainable design. The basis of this work is at experimental level and its aim is to provide a complete screening of the packaging sector according to specific methodological choices that consider various aspects: from volumes to weights, from materials to components disassembly, ranging from functionality to quantitative relationship between communication and information.
A comprehensive analysis that provides an overview on the state of packaging in terms of eco-sustainability and which can be a real starting point for packaging design in a global sustainability perspective. This innovative perspective generates a totally new approach to the packaging design, from products to distribution systems.
Proceedings of 18th Annual International Sustainable Development Research Conference, 2012
The rapid evolution of the worldwide scenario, the climate change, biodiversity loss, resources d... more The rapid evolution of the worldwide scenario, the climate change, biodiversity loss, resources depletion and rapid technological and social development call for radical changes. Anthropogenic pressures on the Earth System have reached a scale where an urgent change of route is inescapable. Despite the actual environmental, economic and social crisis calls humanity for radical changes to ensure the survival of the mankind, there are new prospects that encourage "designers" to rethink the entire socio-productive system in a sustainable manner. Therefore the main criteria for the development of eco-efficient products deal with the reduction of inputs such as material consumption and energy, the reduction of toxic and/or harmful resources, the use of biocompatible and local renewable resources, the product life optimisation by means of easy updating and maintenance procedures, a reduced semantic and functional obsolescence, the life extension of materials and the strengthening of the use phase of products. Despite the "eco-friendly" products and services, use far less energy and materials than those of some decades ago, the overall consumption of environmental resources continues to increase. This tells us clearly that even if the existent improvements are increasing, they are not enough: the translation towards sustainability requires a systemic change. It is not a question of doing what we already do better, but of doing different things in innovative and different ways going beyond the mere eco-efficiency. We need to regain the cultural knowledge and experience that allows us to define and design production flows that can traverse different systems in a continuous process that decreases the ecological footprint of products while increasing income throughout the economy. The function of designers consists in trying to re-balance the relation between production, environment and society and in making an effort to start some interventions which maintain the balance of this mutual bond, making it better through a constant multi-disciplinary dialogue
Proceedings of the 3rd International Forum of Design as a Process. Latin Network for the Development of Design as a Process, 2011
The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of I... more The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of Industrial Products founded the Observatory of Eco-Pack (Oep) in 2005. The Oep is a strategic body that joins theoretical research with teaching: part of the pack screening is updated by the students of the course, so they can work together with the researchers and develop their critical sense. The OEP conducts a complete screening of the packaging production sector according to specific methodological choices that examine many aspects and consists of a qualitative part (coherence in forms, dismounting...) and a quantitative one (simplified LCA). The cross analysis of all data provides a map of the general characteristics and of problems of packaging on the market. This complete analysis gives the chance to improve existing packaging and begin the definition of new guidelines to design packaging ex-novo. At last, it is possible to obtain specific proposals for each sector, in order to design a new sustainable pack.
Proceedings of the 18th Annual International Sustainable Development Research Conference, 2012
Local Economic Development (LED) is of considerable significance within the cultural context in w... more Local Economic Development (LED) is of considerable significance within the cultural context in which it operates and is currently becoming an increasingly important part in international cooperation. The possibility to enable scenarios of bottom-up economic and social development, led by local actors, is gaining ground in the last decade. In this context of steady change, the national and local governments, like businesses and other organizations must rethink development strategies in order to lead the change to widespread prosperity of the people and the ecosystem. To centre these goals the implementation of an approach that goes beyond a specific and punctual solutions is needed, so it tends to create connections between local material, energetic and informational resources, generating multiple and complex solutions. In particular, energy is a common good, considered as need fundamental and shared by the society, but also it is an individual right to increase our own capability. The socio-economical growth is strictly connected with the access to a secure and affordable supply of energy, because with a permanent availability of energy in its various forms, especially electricity, people can learn, produce, share and increase their activities in wide meaning. But the emissions associated with energy generation and consumption is also central to number of key environmental issues. Therefore, the aim is to define sustainable models using a holistic theory that take into account not only the economical and environmental aspects, but also the social ones. In Systemic Design (SD) theory, the economic, social and environmental benefits are required through the flows and the efficiency in the use of resources
Territorialità e sostenibilità. Scenari di ricerca e di collaborazione per una progettazione consapevole a supporto delle imprese, 2014
Il ruolo della grafica ha una componente etica sempre più marcata, perché è pre- sente in modo cr... more Il ruolo della grafica ha una componente etica sempre più marcata, perché è pre- sente in modo crescente nella quotidianità di ciascuna persona per informare e per comunicare. Il fattore etico della comunicazione visiva si manifesta non solo a livello di contenuti, ma anche a livello di buon progetto. La comunicazione che si occupa di temi di interesse sociale (e ambientale) tradizionalmente è stata responsabilità delle pubbliche amministrazioni, tuttavia si stanno riscontrando due nuove tendenze: l'orizzontalità della comunicazione e il coinvolgimento attivo delle imprese private
The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of I... more The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of Industrial Products founded the Observatory of Eco-Pack (Oep) in 2005. The Oep is a strategic body that joins theoretical research with teaching: part of the pack screening is updated by the students of the course, so they can work together with the researchers and develop their critical sense. The OEP conducts a complete screening of the packaging production sector according to specific methodological choices that examine many aspects and consists of a qualitative part (coherence in forms, dismounting...) and a quantitative one (simplified LCA). The cross analysis of all data provides a map of the general characteristics and of problems of packaging on the market. This complete analysis gives the chance to improve existing packaging and begin the definition of new guidelines to design packaging ex-novo. At last, it is possible to obtain specific proposals for each sector, in order to design a new sustainable pack
The sustainable transition of the regional and urban systems in which we live represents a crucia... more The sustainable transition of the regional and urban systems in which we live represents a crucial challenge for our societies and requires a new integrated vision of the social, environmental, cultural, political and economic dimensions. Territorial systems can be considered as socio-technical systems, made up of a complex network of infrastructure and facilities and also of human interactions and activities. So far, the sustainable innovation of socio-technical systems has often been concerned with the introduction of sustainable technological solutions, but today it is clear how specific solutions must be framed from a systems perspective. The paper aims at providing a comprehensive analysis of the design tools able to support this systemic transition, starting from the analysis of the macro-strategies developed by the transition studies, in particular the Multi-level Perspective model. Through a cross-analysis with the main design fields related to the systemic design domain, fo...
ABSTRACT Thermal insulating plasters are an important means to face the energy efficiency issues ... more ABSTRACT Thermal insulating plasters are an important means to face the energy efficiency issues in building field, above all in renovation processes. New solutions, such as nanotechnology or aerogel based plasters, could make a significant contribution to this field, reaching higher level of thermal performance and reducing needed thickness. But, in order to be really suitable for the market, new plaster solutions have to answer to specific economical and technical needs. This research provides an overall analysis of thermal insulating plasters in European market, comparing existing products according to technical specifications and economical features. The main goal of this survey is to drive researches in thermal plasters fields towards innovative appli- cation, creating new plasters able to meets real market and end-users demands. Technical cross assessment considers three main factors, defined according to European standards: volume mass powder, dry bulk density of hardened mortar and thermal conductivity. Benchmarking analysis compares prices per unit, in order to relate material quantity to the achieving of common Rx value. Cross assessments results allow to define thermal, technical and economical requirements that new thermal insulating plasters have to meet to be suitable for European volume market.
Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association, Jan 24, 2015
Approximately 2 million chronic haemodialysis patients produce over 2 000 000 tons of waste per y... more Approximately 2 million chronic haemodialysis patients produce over 2 000 000 tons of waste per year that includes about 600 000 tons of potentially hazardous waste. The aim of the present study was to analyse the characteristics of the waste that is produced through chronic haemodialysis in an effort to identify strategies to reduce its environmental and financial impact. The study included three dialysis machines and disposables for bicarbonate dialysis, haemodiafiltration (HFR) and lactate dialysis. Hazardous waste is defined as waste that comes into contact with bodily fluids. The weight and cost of waste management was evaluated by various policies of differentiation, ranging from a careful-optimal differentiation to a careless one. The amount of time needed for optimal management was recorded in 30 dialysis sessions. Non-hazardous materials were assessed for potential recycling. The amount of plastic waste that is produced per dialysis session ranges from 1.5 to 8 kg (from 1.1...
Two design solutions are described to suggest possible approaches for sustainable
development i... more Two design solutions are described to suggest possible approaches for sustainable
development in the field of energy. They concretely integrate production culture and design research in order to reveal the connections and congruencies, today still hidden, between artificial production and Nature. The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise in synergy with the resources found on the local territory; the second case deals with the need to display products at environment-friendly fairs.
The challenge is to make even our daily actions sustainable, starting with our industrial
energy needs. This is why social education is the most important element: a change in behaviors and greater sharing in the application of new lifestyles.
To solve the waste problem we could configure new networks among different companies in geographi... more To solve the waste problem we could configure new networks among different companies in geographic proximity. This allows to establish relations that lead to zero emission by implementing a sustainable management of wastes.
If we have a design methodology that values the quality of the outputs, we need to make
these potentialities concrete by providing a system with available resources and their possible users.
It deals with the design and establishment of a Database that can be consulted: this acquires and organizes the information about the outputs produced and the inputs required as resources, the manufacturers present in the community. The goal is to organize data into a system in order to create connections between outputs produced and inputs required.
Humans have always looked at Nature as a model to answer their questions. Today our task is to LE... more Humans have always looked at Nature as a model to answer their questions. Today our task is to LEARN FROM NATURE not shapes but the efficiency of processes and, most important, the richness of complexity and the power of relationships: fundamental conditions for any living system. If they are adopted in the world of design they will lead to a change in the paradigm that allows to think by connections.
Systemic thought is based on this model: the identification of a reality consisting of QUALITY that is often unquantifiable, of CONNECTIONS that are apparently invisible but indispensable for life. It involves looking not at "things" but at systems of relationships that give concreteness to what we are observing, from the infinitely small to the infinitely large.
A “wisdom” that allows us to more easily develop sustainable scenarios, prefiguring appropriate answers to the needs of the present without compromising or jeopardizing the development prospects for future generations.
TWO DESIGN SOLUTIONS conducted in the Program of Master of Science Degree in Ecodesign at the Politecnico di Torino, in collaboration with ZERI foundation. They suggest possible approaches for sustainable development in the field of energy and production processes. They demonstrate HOW SYSTEMIC THINKING IN DESIGN CAN
EMPOWER the relationship between human beings and nature, culture and design, production and environment, aims to join economic, social and environmental demands.
The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise, in synergy with the resources found on the local territory, the specific goal of research is to eliminate production waste of Agrindustria by opening up the industrial system, in which the outputs of the company become resource for local
enterprises.
The second case deals with the possibility to production steel ball by using natural surface agents instead of solvents coming from petroleum; the results is not polluted outputs to use as raw material (INPUT) for other productions on territory and the concrete possibility to manage wastewater (now expensive waste) in a sort of natural matabolization.
By systemic approach and opening up the company to the territory it's possible to reduce the costs of waste just because they have interesting and producing quality and the design have the responsability to suggest how to exploit them.
Proceedings of Management of Technologies - Step to Sustainable Production Conference, 2010
In the light of the growing concern about climate change, an important part of resource exploitat... more In the light of the growing concern about climate change, an important part of resource exploitation from industrial society is connected to energy use. Integration of companies through material and energy exchanges lead to a more efficient use of resources as well as financial, social and environmental benefits for the local entities involved, as Systemic Design approach proves.
This research analyzes seven best-practices in Sweden, which since the Eighties realizes green energy plants, to understand key-drivers and barriers. Research coordinators can facilitate the creation of selfsustaining network of companies.
The large-scale retail trade has been providing its contribution towards environmental ... more The large-scale retail trade has been providing its contribution towards environmental sustainability through different means, principally on the basis of consumer demand.
However, there are still large gaps in this area, as the best practices that can be found
are sporadic cases, as opposed to standard practice.
The analysis of case studies reveals several environmental problem areas: the geographical location of dealers, the adjustment of the retail trade to current consumer trends, environmental certification, packaging, transport, waste, energy expenditure and the limited success of sustainable solutions/products among the public. As part of this research we wanted to pursue the latter aspect, identifying specific lines of development, because it is essential to work on the choices and behaviour of costumers, who in turn affect those of large-scale retail.
The aim is to induce consumers to enter the system of values proposed by the product and then create a link of loyalty.
Proceedings of the International Symposium on Sustainable Design (ISSD), 2011
Packaging, as a symbolic expression of a brand and of the consumer who recognizes him/herself in ... more Packaging, as a symbolic expression of a brand and of the consumer who recognizes him/herself in the purchased product, is now full of features that go beyond containment and protection, becoming a means of communication and education in the field of environmental sustainability.
Although the principle of eco-compatibility should be long-acquired by now, the market still has many shortcomings from this point of view. The field of packaging design has not been able to renew itself for reduced environmental impacts.
This research starts from the analysis of the criticalities of present industrial packaging to propose a new approach to sustainable design. The basis of this work is at experimental level and its aim is to provide a complete screening of the packaging sector according to specific methodological choices that consider various aspects: from volumes to weights, from materials to components disassembly, ranging from functionality to quantitative relationship between communication and information.
A comprehensive analysis that provides an overview on the state of packaging in terms of eco-sustainability and which can be a real starting point for packaging design in a global sustainability perspective. This innovative perspective generates a totally new approach to the packaging design, from products to distribution systems.
Proceedings of 18th Annual International Sustainable Development Research Conference, 2012
The rapid evolution of the worldwide scenario, the climate change, biodiversity loss, resources d... more The rapid evolution of the worldwide scenario, the climate change, biodiversity loss, resources depletion and rapid technological and social development call for radical changes. Anthropogenic pressures on the Earth System have reached a scale where an urgent change of route is inescapable. Despite the actual environmental, economic and social crisis calls humanity for radical changes to ensure the survival of the mankind, there are new prospects that encourage "designers" to rethink the entire socio-productive system in a sustainable manner. Therefore the main criteria for the development of eco-efficient products deal with the reduction of inputs such as material consumption and energy, the reduction of toxic and/or harmful resources, the use of biocompatible and local renewable resources, the product life optimisation by means of easy updating and maintenance procedures, a reduced semantic and functional obsolescence, the life extension of materials and the strengthening of the use phase of products. Despite the "eco-friendly" products and services, use far less energy and materials than those of some decades ago, the overall consumption of environmental resources continues to increase. This tells us clearly that even if the existent improvements are increasing, they are not enough: the translation towards sustainability requires a systemic change. It is not a question of doing what we already do better, but of doing different things in innovative and different ways going beyond the mere eco-efficiency. We need to regain the cultural knowledge and experience that allows us to define and design production flows that can traverse different systems in a continuous process that decreases the ecological footprint of products while increasing income throughout the economy. The function of designers consists in trying to re-balance the relation between production, environment and society and in making an effort to start some interventions which maintain the balance of this mutual bond, making it better through a constant multi-disciplinary dialogue
Proceedings of the 3rd International Forum of Design as a Process. Latin Network for the Development of Design as a Process, 2011
The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of I... more The Department of Architecture and Design (Dad) and the course on Environmental Requirements of Industrial Products founded the Observatory of Eco-Pack (Oep) in 2005. The Oep is a strategic body that joins theoretical research with teaching: part of the pack screening is updated by the students of the course, so they can work together with the researchers and develop their critical sense. The OEP conducts a complete screening of the packaging production sector according to specific methodological choices that examine many aspects and consists of a qualitative part (coherence in forms, dismounting...) and a quantitative one (simplified LCA). The cross analysis of all data provides a map of the general characteristics and of problems of packaging on the market. This complete analysis gives the chance to improve existing packaging and begin the definition of new guidelines to design packaging ex-novo. At last, it is possible to obtain specific proposals for each sector, in order to design a new sustainable pack.
Proceedings of the 18th Annual International Sustainable Development Research Conference, 2012
Local Economic Development (LED) is of considerable significance within the cultural context in w... more Local Economic Development (LED) is of considerable significance within the cultural context in which it operates and is currently becoming an increasingly important part in international cooperation. The possibility to enable scenarios of bottom-up economic and social development, led by local actors, is gaining ground in the last decade. In this context of steady change, the national and local governments, like businesses and other organizations must rethink development strategies in order to lead the change to widespread prosperity of the people and the ecosystem. To centre these goals the implementation of an approach that goes beyond a specific and punctual solutions is needed, so it tends to create connections between local material, energetic and informational resources, generating multiple and complex solutions. In particular, energy is a common good, considered as need fundamental and shared by the society, but also it is an individual right to increase our own capability. The socio-economical growth is strictly connected with the access to a secure and affordable supply of energy, because with a permanent availability of energy in its various forms, especially electricity, people can learn, produce, share and increase their activities in wide meaning. But the emissions associated with energy generation and consumption is also central to number of key environmental issues. Therefore, the aim is to define sustainable models using a holistic theory that take into account not only the economical and environmental aspects, but also the social ones. In Systemic Design (SD) theory, the economic, social and environmental benefits are required through the flows and the efficiency in the use of resources
Territorialità e sostenibilità. Scenari di ricerca e di collaborazione per una progettazione consapevole a supporto delle imprese, 2014
Il ruolo della grafica ha una componente etica sempre più marcata, perché è pre- sente in modo cr... more Il ruolo della grafica ha una componente etica sempre più marcata, perché è pre- sente in modo crescente nella quotidianità di ciascuna persona per informare e per comunicare. Il fattore etico della comunicazione visiva si manifesta non solo a livello di contenuti, ma anche a livello di buon progetto. La comunicazione che si occupa di temi di interesse sociale (e ambientale) tradizionalmente è stata responsabilità delle pubbliche amministrazioni, tuttavia si stanno riscontrando due nuove tendenze: l'orizzontalità della comunicazione e il coinvolgimento attivo delle imprese private
Il settore Agroalimentare. Un patrimonio made in Italy da consolidare e rinnovare / Luigi Bistagn... more Il settore Agroalimentare. Un patrimonio made in Italy da consolidare e rinnovare / Luigi Bistagnino, Valter Cantino, Paolo Gibello, Eugenio Puddu, Domenico Zaccone
La ricerca di un modello di sviluppo sostenibile è l’obiettivo delle società industrialmente avan... more La ricerca di un modello di sviluppo sostenibile è l’obiettivo delle società industrialmente avanzate. Il volume propone un’analisi delle posizioni dei diversi autori e delle diverse scuole di pensiero in rapporto anche all’evolversi nel tempo del sistema produttivo e delinea le tappe principali dell’evoluzione dei processi produttivi negli ultimi anni, mirate a trovare soluzioni nuove con un miglior e più efficiente utilizzo delle risorse impiegate.
Il fare ecologico (la prima edizione risale al 2000) è ancora oggi il testo fondamentale del corso di Requisiti ambientali del prodotto industriale del Politecnico di Torino, di cui Carla Lanzavecchia è stata la prima docente, e anche una delle pubblicazioni di riferimento nella Laurea Magistrale in Ecodesign.
Sustainable design is the common thread that links the items illustrated in Ecodesign. From house... more Sustainable design is the common thread that links the items illustrated in Ecodesign. From household appliances to means of transport, clothing to home fittings, and packaging to advertising campaign, more than 100 products divided into eight categories demonstrate the incredible results achieved at the international level by state-of-the-art design in pursuing sustainability.
Currently, the local economic development is becoming increasingly important, and governments are... more Currently, the local economic development is becoming increasingly important, and governments are going to develop strategies in order to lead the chance to widespread prosperity of the people and the ecosystem. To aim at holistic wellbeing, specific and punctual solutions should be got over and tend to approach that creates connections between local material, energetic and informational resources, generating multiple and complex solutions. In particular, energy, as a common good, is considered as fundamental need and shared by the society, but also it is an individual right to increase our own capability.
In this book, the Energy issue is faced in a scientific and broad way, looking at Systemic Design Theory and its concrete applications and solutions.
This first volume deals with the theory of Systemic Design and the practice of case studies, that are tacked with the same keys: what, why, when, where and how. The analysis of complex systems gives some contributions and reflections that generate a framework in support of decision makers.
The proposed framework turns environmental problems into business opportunities, so companies can transform unwanted waste and by-products into valuable products.
It is demonstrated that the green energy production in systemic nets of small and distributed plants helps the success and the sustainability of territories.
The energy affects the lives of individuals and their various combinations, as for example the co... more The energy affects the lives of individuals and their various combinations, as for example the companies and their external/internal exchanges of resources that determine largely their environmental impacts. The theory of Systemic Design, explained in volume 1, gives a scientific way to find how the output in a territory can be considered and used as input in other activities in the same place. This theory applied to Energy sector gives interesting results, that are supported and validated by real case studies.
The scientific approach of this book is evident in its strong research methodology.
This second volume deals with case studies that support the theory expressed in volume 1. The cross analysis of the case studies, described in detail with common pattern, is crucial to find interesting results and have some reflection on the topic. Eight case studies have been chosen for their approach, size, and experiences. The selection of case studies is based on the production of bioenergy, the complex relations with more or less large networks of companies, the compliance with the Systemic Design principles, above all the tendency to zero emissions. The different size of plants allows to understand the regional effects with macro-systems and the local effects with micro-systems. In that way, the limits in using local resources to produce energy become evident. The localization of the cases is divided into two specific countries of Europe: Sweden and Italy.
This analysis aims to turn the theoretical knowledge into pathways of change suitable to the needs and capacities specific to regions or localities, and to replicate this model of systemic energy networks.
Il libro racconta della sperimentazione condotta in collaborazione con Lavazza di un progetto com... more Il libro racconta della sperimentazione condotta in collaborazione con Lavazza di un progetto complesso in visione sistemica, focalizzata sulla valorizzazione dei fondi di caffè dopo la produzione della bevanda. La ricerca applicata ha portato a delineare una possibile valorizzazione come substrato per la coltivazione di funghi commestibili (Pleurotus) concludendosi con l'esposizione dei risultati al Salone Internazionale del Gusto 2008.
Design è un sostantivo inglese che significa "progetto", deriva dal latino pro-iacere (gettare in... more Design è un sostantivo inglese che significa "progetto", deriva dal latino pro-iacere (gettare in avanti) a indicare un'attività che contiene in sè l'idea di proiezione in avanti, di futuro. La parola design ha acquisito nel tempo molteplici significati: oggi non riguarda solo più il prodotto e la comunicazione ma anche i servizi, le strategie e i sistemi intrecciando in modo sempre più stretto i temi della sostenibilità ambientale. I designers oggi devono occuparsi non soltanto dello sviluppo di un singolo prodotto, ma dell'intero sistema-prodotto collocato in un preciso contesto sociale, politico, economico e culturale. Il designer sistemico, in particolare, progetta relazioni virtuose tra persone e attività produttive generando ricadute positive a scala sociale e ambientale. La mostra "Le Potenzialità del territorio" restituisce le direzioni più innovative della ricerca in design offrendo alcune indicazioni progettuali su come valorizzare un contesto sociale e territoriale caratterizzato da attività industriali e agricole non relazionate tra loro. Si propone un nuovo modello economico-produttivo che renda coese e forti le relazioni tra i diversi soggetti, generando benefici, anche in termini di salute, per l'intera collettività. Il territorio è qui visto come un'opportunità da studiare e valorizzare in tutte le sue componenti sociali, culturali, materiali e climatiche. Oggi il mondo naturale e quello artificiale hanno traiettorie che non si intersecano: è più che mai urgente riavvicinarli ricostruendo la trama dei loro rapporti
The role of graphics has an increasingly remarkable ethical component, since it is becoming centr... more The role of graphics has an increasingly remarkable ethical component, since it is becoming central in everyone's daily life as a means of informing and communicat- ing. Visual communication retains an ethical element that is noticeable not just in content, but also in good design. Governments have traditionally been accountable for managing the branch of communication that deals with social and environmental issues. Nevertheless, two new trends appear to be up and coming: communication becoming horizontal, and private companies getting directly and actively involved
il piano aziendale deve essere ottimanle, legato all'ambiente che circonda l'impresa, ai vantaggi... more il piano aziendale deve essere ottimanle, legato all'ambiente che circonda l'impresa, ai vantaggi derivanti dalla sua collocazione territoriale e alla storia stessa dell'azienda
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development in the field of energy. They concretely integrate production culture and design research in order to reveal the connections and congruencies, today still hidden, between artificial production and Nature. The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise in synergy with the resources found on the local territory; the second case deals with the need to display products at environment-friendly fairs.
The challenge is to make even our daily actions sustainable, starting with our industrial
energy needs. This is why social education is the most important element: a change in behaviors and greater sharing in the application of new lifestyles.
If we have a design methodology that values the quality of the outputs, we need to make
these potentialities concrete by providing a system with available resources and their possible users.
It deals with the design and establishment of a Database that can be consulted: this acquires and organizes the information about the outputs produced and the inputs required as resources, the manufacturers present in the community. The goal is to organize data into a system in order to create connections between outputs produced and inputs required.
Systemic thought is based on this model: the identification of a reality consisting of QUALITY that is often unquantifiable, of CONNECTIONS that are apparently invisible but indispensable for life. It involves looking not at "things" but at systems of relationships that give concreteness to what we are observing, from the infinitely small to the infinitely large.
A “wisdom” that allows us to more easily develop sustainable scenarios, prefiguring appropriate answers to the needs of the present without compromising or jeopardizing the development prospects for future generations.
TWO DESIGN SOLUTIONS conducted in the Program of Master of Science Degree in Ecodesign at the Politecnico di Torino, in collaboration with ZERI foundation. They suggest possible approaches for sustainable development in the field of energy and production processes. They demonstrate HOW SYSTEMIC THINKING IN DESIGN CAN
EMPOWER the relationship between human beings and nature, culture and design, production and environment, aims to join economic, social and environmental demands.
The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise, in synergy with the resources found on the local territory, the specific goal of research is to eliminate production waste of Agrindustria by opening up the industrial system, in which the outputs of the company become resource for local
enterprises.
The second case deals with the possibility to production steel ball by using natural surface agents instead of solvents coming from petroleum; the results is not polluted outputs to use as raw material (INPUT) for other productions on territory and the concrete possibility to manage wastewater (now expensive waste) in a sort of natural matabolization.
By systemic approach and opening up the company to the territory it's possible to reduce the costs of waste just because they have interesting and producing quality and the design have the responsability to suggest how to exploit them.
This research analyzes seven best-practices in Sweden, which since the Eighties realizes green energy plants, to understand key-drivers and barriers. Research coordinators can facilitate the creation of selfsustaining network of companies.
However, there are still large gaps in this area, as the best practices that can be found
are sporadic cases, as opposed to standard practice.
The analysis of case studies reveals several environmental problem areas: the geographical location of dealers, the adjustment of the retail trade to current consumer trends, environmental certification, packaging, transport, waste, energy expenditure and the limited success of sustainable solutions/products among the public. As part of this research we wanted to pursue the latter aspect, identifying specific lines of development, because it is essential to work on the choices and behaviour of costumers, who in turn affect those of large-scale retail.
The aim is to induce consumers to enter the system of values proposed by the product and then create a link of loyalty.
Although the principle of eco-compatibility should be long-acquired by now, the market still has many shortcomings from this point of view. The field of packaging design has not been able to renew itself for reduced environmental impacts.
This research starts from the analysis of the criticalities of present industrial packaging to propose a new approach to sustainable design. The basis of this work is at experimental level and its aim is to provide a complete screening of the packaging sector according to specific methodological choices that consider various aspects: from volumes to weights, from materials to components disassembly, ranging from functionality to quantitative relationship between communication and information.
A comprehensive analysis that provides an overview on the state of packaging in terms of eco-sustainability and which can be a real starting point for packaging design in a global sustainability perspective. This innovative perspective generates a totally new approach to the packaging design, from products to distribution systems.
development in the field of energy. They concretely integrate production culture and design research in order to reveal the connections and congruencies, today still hidden, between artificial production and Nature. The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise in synergy with the resources found on the local territory; the second case deals with the need to display products at environment-friendly fairs.
The challenge is to make even our daily actions sustainable, starting with our industrial
energy needs. This is why social education is the most important element: a change in behaviors and greater sharing in the application of new lifestyles.
If we have a design methodology that values the quality of the outputs, we need to make
these potentialities concrete by providing a system with available resources and their possible users.
It deals with the design and establishment of a Database that can be consulted: this acquires and organizes the information about the outputs produced and the inputs required as resources, the manufacturers present in the community. The goal is to organize data into a system in order to create connections between outputs produced and inputs required.
Systemic thought is based on this model: the identification of a reality consisting of QUALITY that is often unquantifiable, of CONNECTIONS that are apparently invisible but indispensable for life. It involves looking not at "things" but at systems of relationships that give concreteness to what we are observing, from the infinitely small to the infinitely large.
A “wisdom” that allows us to more easily develop sustainable scenarios, prefiguring appropriate answers to the needs of the present without compromising or jeopardizing the development prospects for future generations.
TWO DESIGN SOLUTIONS conducted in the Program of Master of Science Degree in Ecodesign at the Politecnico di Torino, in collaboration with ZERI foundation. They suggest possible approaches for sustainable development in the field of energy and production processes. They demonstrate HOW SYSTEMIC THINKING IN DESIGN CAN
EMPOWER the relationship between human beings and nature, culture and design, production and environment, aims to join economic, social and environmental demands.
The first case deals with the production of renewable energy for the self-sustenance of a small-medium enterprise, in synergy with the resources found on the local territory, the specific goal of research is to eliminate production waste of Agrindustria by opening up the industrial system, in which the outputs of the company become resource for local
enterprises.
The second case deals with the possibility to production steel ball by using natural surface agents instead of solvents coming from petroleum; the results is not polluted outputs to use as raw material (INPUT) for other productions on territory and the concrete possibility to manage wastewater (now expensive waste) in a sort of natural matabolization.
By systemic approach and opening up the company to the territory it's possible to reduce the costs of waste just because they have interesting and producing quality and the design have the responsability to suggest how to exploit them.
This research analyzes seven best-practices in Sweden, which since the Eighties realizes green energy plants, to understand key-drivers and barriers. Research coordinators can facilitate the creation of selfsustaining network of companies.
However, there are still large gaps in this area, as the best practices that can be found
are sporadic cases, as opposed to standard practice.
The analysis of case studies reveals several environmental problem areas: the geographical location of dealers, the adjustment of the retail trade to current consumer trends, environmental certification, packaging, transport, waste, energy expenditure and the limited success of sustainable solutions/products among the public. As part of this research we wanted to pursue the latter aspect, identifying specific lines of development, because it is essential to work on the choices and behaviour of costumers, who in turn affect those of large-scale retail.
The aim is to induce consumers to enter the system of values proposed by the product and then create a link of loyalty.
Although the principle of eco-compatibility should be long-acquired by now, the market still has many shortcomings from this point of view. The field of packaging design has not been able to renew itself for reduced environmental impacts.
This research starts from the analysis of the criticalities of present industrial packaging to propose a new approach to sustainable design. The basis of this work is at experimental level and its aim is to provide a complete screening of the packaging sector according to specific methodological choices that consider various aspects: from volumes to weights, from materials to components disassembly, ranging from functionality to quantitative relationship between communication and information.
A comprehensive analysis that provides an overview on the state of packaging in terms of eco-sustainability and which can be a real starting point for packaging design in a global sustainability perspective. This innovative perspective generates a totally new approach to the packaging design, from products to distribution systems.
Il fare ecologico (la prima edizione risale al 2000) è ancora oggi il testo fondamentale del corso di Requisiti ambientali del prodotto industriale del Politecnico di Torino, di cui Carla Lanzavecchia è stata la prima docente, e anche una delle pubblicazioni di riferimento nella Laurea Magistrale in Ecodesign.
In this book, the Energy issue is faced in a scientific and broad way, looking at Systemic Design Theory and its concrete applications and solutions.
This first volume deals with the theory of Systemic Design and the practice of case studies, that are tacked with the same keys: what, why, when, where and how. The analysis of complex systems gives some contributions and reflections that generate a framework in support of decision makers.
The proposed framework turns environmental problems into business opportunities, so companies can transform unwanted waste and by-products into valuable products.
It is demonstrated that the green energy production in systemic nets of small and distributed plants helps the success and the sustainability of territories.
The scientific approach of this book is evident in its strong research methodology.
This second volume deals with case studies that support the theory expressed in volume 1. The cross analysis of the case studies, described in detail with common pattern, is crucial to find interesting results and have some reflection on the topic. Eight case studies have been chosen for their approach, size, and experiences. The selection of case studies is based on the production of bioenergy, the complex relations with more or less large networks of companies, the compliance with the Systemic Design principles, above all the tendency to zero emissions. The different size of plants allows to understand the regional effects with macro-systems and the local effects with micro-systems. In that way, the limits in using local resources to produce energy become evident. The localization of the cases is divided into two specific countries of Europe: Sweden and Italy.
This analysis aims to turn the theoretical knowledge into pathways of change suitable to the needs and capacities specific to regions or localities, and to replicate this model of systemic energy networks.