Thinking about Green Design for Your Business

When we talk about green design, we are not referring to any special color code. Rather, the term refers to a kind of design that is created while keeping in mind  the ecological benefit — in other words, a sustainable design. Sustainable design is based on a general reaction to global environmental crises, the rapid growth of economic activity and human population, the depletion of natural resources, damage to ecosystems and loss of biodiversity.

When we act on behalf of the environment, we are indicating that there is support of the concept of green or sustainable design on a global level among professionals. Simply put, the ultimate goal is to become more environmentally sensitive. For example, the world needs facilities that are more energy efficient and that promote conservation and the recycling of natural resources.

Green design: a new way of thinking

Sustainability requires that the use of natural resources occurs according to the logic of nature. That is, you have to work with nature and not against it. This often requires a different logic that currently prevails, one which favors economic or geopolitical realities over ecological realities. To change logic, it is necessary to rely on the wisdom of nature.

You have to work with nature and not against it.

How exactly do we apply the wisdom of nature to the field of design? Sustainable graphic design considers the environmental impact of its products (packaging, printed materials, publications, etc.) through a life cycle that includes raw materials, processing, manufacturing, transportation, use and disposal.

Some techniques for sustainable graphic design include:

  • reducing the amount of materials needed for production
  • using paper made from recycled materials and post-consumer waste
  • using production and distribution methods that require the least amount of transport

Here is another definition for this trend. Green design is the ability to design objects and materials based on economic, social and environmental sustainability. It includes many fields of creative activity, such as architecture, environmental design, urban planning, engineering, graphic design, interior design and fashion.

The purpose of green design is to produce materials in such a way that the use of nonrenewable resources is reduced. Consequently there would be a less aggressive and negative impact on the ecosystem.

The public has already begun to recognize the importance of what a good design entails. They demand it in their products and in virtually all aspects of their lives.

You can find more information on how to implement green design in your business at the following website: https://www.sba.gov/green-business-guide.