Design of indicators for measuring product performance in the circular economy

Percy Griffiths, Steve Cayzer

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

22 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

This paper explores measurement of product performance with respect to circular economy principles. Potential indicators are assessed, with special attention given to questions such as: the variables that should be measured; how these variables should be assessed; and in which format they should be presented. The resulting considerations are used to develop a prototype whose design is informed through feedback from Circular Economy experts. The prototype uses a points-based questionnaire which converges into a simple final result with minimum and maximum limits. The selected approach is critically appraised, and its utility for decision-making discussed. The strengths include: ease of use; simplicity; speed; and an effective metaphor for the diffusion of circular economy principles. The limitations include: the opaque and potentially misleading nature of a single metric; superficial engagement with decision making; and the reliance on context specific assumptions. Future developments could include refining the approach to encourage deeper reflection, and generalization of the approach to different industry sectors or sustainability frameworks.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016
Subtitle of host publicationPart IV
EditorsR. Setchi, R. J. Howlett, Y. Liu, P. Theobald
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH
Pages307-321
Number of pages15
ISBN (Print)9783319320960
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Apr 2016
Event3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing, SDM 2016 - Chania, Greece
Duration: 4 Apr 20166 Apr 2016

Publication series

NameSmart Innovation, Systems and Technologies
Volume52

Conference

Conference3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing, SDM 2016
Country/TerritoryGreece
CityChania
Period4/04/166/04/16

Keywords

  • Circular economy
  • Metrics

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