Circular Strategies Workshop: Redesigning Products for Sustainability

Workshop Overview

This interactive workshop introduces participants to circular strategies through hands-on activities. Participants will explore alternative ways to meet user needs while creating more sustainable product designs.

Duration: 40 minutes

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Understand the basics of circular strategies in product design
• Identify functional and emotional needs that products serve
• Apply circular strategies to redesign everyday products

Required Materials

• Workshop slides
• Circular Strategy Cards
• Worksheets for recording needs analysis
• Mentimeter slide for sharing ideas

Workshop Approach

This workshop combines practical exercises with proven methodologies, emphasising:

1. User-Centered Design

• Deep diving into functional needs (practical, utilitarian aspects)
• Exploring emotional needs (psychological benefits and user satisfaction)
• Emphasizing empathy and open-minded thinking

2. Collaborative Innovation

• Working in diverse teams
• Focusing on creative brainstorming
• Sharing and pitching solutions

3. Hands-On Experience

Participants work on redesigning real products from various categories:

• Fashion (Office Chair Blanket)
• Food Packaging (Single-use dessert container)
• Cosmetics (Toiletry bag)

Workshop Structure

1. Introduction & Group Formation (5 minutes)

• Welcome and overview
• Form groups of 3-4 participants
• Select products for redesign

2. Identifying Needs (10 minutes)

• Discuss functional needs
• Explore emotional needs
• Document findings

3. Hands-On Redesign (15 minutes)

• Review circular strategy cards
• Brainstorm redesign ideas
• Apply circular strategies

4. Share & Wrap-up (10 minutes)

• Present group ideas
• Discuss key takeaways
• Share additional resources

Facilitation Tips

• Encourage wild ideas during brainstorming
• Use “yes, and…” to build on ideas
• Keep groups focused on user needs
• Balance creativity with practicality

Original Framework and Adaptations

This workshop builds upon established circular economy principles while introducing unique elements:

• Structured brainstorming approach combining functional and emotional need analysis
• Time-boxed exercises promoting focused ideation
• Integration of collaborative design thinking methods
• Emphasis on both user experience and environmental impact

Attribution and Resources

This workshop incorporates materials and concepts from:

• Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Circular Design Guide

Additional Resources

• Circular Design Guide (Ellen Macarthur Foundation)
• Value Proposition Canvas (Peter Thompson)
• Circular by Design Report (European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform)
• Circular Economy Resources (UK Green Building Council - UKGBC)

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Workshop developed by Prof. Gaëlle Vallée-Tourangeau for the event THINK GREEN: Developing Kingston’s Circular Economy, 18 November 2024.