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A sustainability index for manufactured products? A conceptual paper
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 00:13 authored by Ashley, PIf we can put energy and water efficiency ratings on white goods and publish fuel efficiency data for vehicles, why cannot we extend that reporting model to all of the things we make? And why limit such reporting to only the use phase of products rather than all the production characteristics as well? Adopting a whole-of-system perspective, this conceptual article introduces a sustainability index for manufactured products with the aim to promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable outcomes. Taking its place in a continuum of recent sustainability literature, and informed by a need to be more energy and resource efficient, reduce greenhouse gases and adopt industrial practices that are more in tune with natural processes, the index represents a pragmatic and commonsense approach to sustainability, if not climate change. As a production system optimisation tool, the index could allow businesses to better measure, manage and utilise their resources, resulting in improved financial performance.
History
Publication title
Australasian Journal of Environmental ManagementVolume
21Pagination
5-10ISSN
1448-6563Department/School
School of Geography, Planning and Spatial SciencesPublisher
Taylor & FrancisPlace of publication
United KingdomRights statement
Copyright 2014 Taylor and FrancisRepository Status
- Restricted