I. Intro

    In the recent past, engineers and companies showed little concern for how the materials they chose and the processes they used affected the environment. However, nowadays there is a growing concern for the condition of our environment and therefore a trend has begun known as ecodesign, which meets the needs of the company while keeping the impact on the environment in mind. We must continue to emphasize ecodesign so that our children and our children's children will be able to enjoy our planet.

The overall goal is to introduce the students to the concept of ecodesign. The students will demonstrate the ability to:
 

• Begin to foresee the possible environmental impact a design may have
• Choose "environmentally friendly" materials
• Refine an existing design to make better use of recycled materials
• Make a design for people in other parts of the world, taking into consideration their available resources

1. Ecodesign transparencies & overhead projector

2. White/chalk board

1. Recyclable materials

1. Be ready to work safely.

2. Review last day's assignment.

3. Define ecodesign.

4. Considerations regarding ecodesign when doing assignment.

5. Why do we need to consider ecodesign?

6. Discuss importance of ecodeign.

7. Discuss how ecodesign may differ from country to country.

8. Discuss how ecodesign can be met using recycled materials.

1. Physics

2. Chemistry

3. Design

4. Math

5. Sociology

    Ecodesign is still an emerging idea, but has come to the forefront because design with consideration of one's environment has become one of the most important aspects of the design process. The constant variable that exists when talking about ecodesign is consideration of one's environment. We must consider the cultures of the local people, the materials available, and the impact it will have on the environment. Therefore, we must realize that a design that is ideal in Canada, may most likely not be a good one in Brazil.

- ecodesign     - sustainability

1. What do you think ecodesign is?

2. What are some of the design considerations we have to make when doing this project?

3. Why is it important to consider ecodesign?

4. How does ecodesign vary in different parts of the world?

Ecodesign is an important concept that we must teach our students. They must understand and begin to think critically about our surroundings, how our life affects the environment, and the concessions we must make when designing new ideas. It's also important for the students to take different points of view of different people, cultures and beliefs to be able to truly put ecodesign to use.