Title :
Eco-KIT: webbased ecodesign toolbox for SMEs
Author :
Jansen, B. ; Vercalsteren, A.
Abstract :
This paper presents 2 topics: 1. an approach towards SMEs, based on ecodesign experiences of Vito, and 2. eco-KIT, a simple-to-use webbased ecodesign toolkit that has been developed mainly to persuade SMEs on taking a proactive attitude towards environmental impact prevention. During the past 2 demonstration projects on ecodesign in Flanders, it was concluded that some SMEs are openminded towards implementing ecodesign, but currently available tools require too much efforts and/or lack demonstrable advantages in business opportunities. Added value is generated when the tool helps the SME to find possible product or service innovations that are profitable for the company and the environment. Also, when relating stakeholder priorities to environmental product requirements, the implementation of ecodesign strategies becomes more relevant to the SME In this paper the background of the development and the functionality of eco-KIT is discussed
Keywords :
CAD; design for environment; product development; recycling; Eco-KIT webbased ecodesign toolbox; ecodesign strategies; environmental impact prevention; environmental product requirements; small to medium enterprises; stakeholder priorities; Business; Companies; Costs; Environmental management; Government; Legislation; Probes; Project management; Samarium; Technological innovation;
Conference_Titel :
Environmentally Conscious Design and Inverse Manufacturing, 2001. Proceedings EcoDesign 2001: Second International Symposium on
Conference_Location :
Tokyo
Print_ISBN :
0-7695-1266-6
DOI :
10.1109/.2001.992354
