Research & Consulting

Developing new knowledge to support the design and management of sustainable products and building

The Centre for Design undertakes two types of research:

· strategic, public interest research projects; and

· organisation-specific research for companies and government agencies.

Current strategic research activities include:

· evaluation and specification of environmentally preferred materials, products and services;

· environmental design and assessment of buildings and links between design and environmental quality;

· affordable and sustainable housing and household practices;

· sustainable packaging; and

· new methods, calculators and tools for sustainable production and consumption.

Applied research and consulting projects cover a wide range of topics, including:

· Life Cycle Assessment, carbon assessment and ecofootprinting of specific products, processes or technologies;

· Assessment and advice regarding environmental design of products and services (EcoReDesign);

· Assessment and advice on environmental design and performance of buildings; and

· Product stewardship strategies for packaging, interior fittings and furnishings, and electrical and electronic products.