Kirsten Schmidt

Product Orientation of Environmental Work

Abstract Product orientation of the environmental work of companies works for a reduction in the environmental impact of products in their total life cycle. In practise, to integrate the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) principle into the environmental work. A traditional environmental management system focuses on production. Product orientated environmental work involves all functions at the company. Tools and methods for the implementation of product orientation and management have been developed in a project financed by the Danish EPA. The results show that the approach towards product orientation should include: a LCA view, dialogue and co-operation, policies and methods, and integration in the environmental management system. For C.C. Jensen A/S (CCJ), the product orientation was initiated by establishment of a LCA view. The results have been integrated into CCJs registration system, used for calculation of prices and for green accounts. The product orientation at CCJ has also resulted in an extended dialogue with their customers.

Understanding ecodesign through a communities of practice perspective

Despite many years of tool development and legislative initiatives, companies are still challenged by ecodesign. This article applies Etienne Wengers communities of practice approach to the existing environmental and product development practices of two Danish case companies. It is a contribution to the current ecodesign discussion and emphasises the social structures and practice perspectives when implementing ecodesign. The case studies reveal the importance of various social elements, which include the participatory role brokers play in organising, facilitating and negotiating meaning with different community members; the use of boundary objects for establishing dialogue and encouraging participation; and the balance between participation and reification in the process of continuously negotiating meaning. In conclusion, ways in which ecodesign can be strengthened using Wengers principles for cultivating communities of practice are suggested. A diversified approach to ecodesign whereby existing communities can expand their current practices and transform into ecodesign communities is also suggested.

Afsætning af etiske/miljøtilpassede produkter i nordisk detailhandel : – eksempler på best practice

Som bindeleddet mellem producenter og forbrugere har detailhandelens holdninger, prioriteringer og indsats betydning for markedsforing og salg af miljotilpassede/ etiske produkter. Rapporten indeho ...