Which term describes a design approach where the environmental impact is considered during design?

• A. Conductivity
• B. Ripple effect
• C. Life-cycle analysis
• D. Ecodesign

Answer: (D)

Designing with environmental impact considered from the start is ecodesign. This approach weaves sustainability into the whole design process, guiding choices about materials, production methods, energy use, durability, repairability, and end-of-life options to reduce the product’s overall environmental burden. Life-cycle analysis is often used within ecodesign to quantify impacts across stages of a product’s life, helping designers make informed decisions, but it’s a tool rather than the design approach itself. The other terms don’t describe a design method focused on environmental considerations: conductivity is an electrical property, and ripple effect refers to secondary consequences rather than a design framework.