Life Cycle Assessment and Circular Economy Indicators to Design Sustainable Electric Outboards: Results From Workshops With Industrial Experts

Abstract

To help industries in their sustainable and circular transition from internal combustion engine production to electric motor production, the deployment of (i) a sound environmental impact assessment methodology, such as life cycle analysis, coupled with (ii) Design for Re-X tools, such as circularity indicators, is instrumental. To demonstrate the industrial relevance and complementary of both approaches, two consecutive workshops are conducted with a major original equipment manufacturer of recreational boats and their associated engines. On this basis, two circularity indicator-based tools were used to quantify and enhance (i) the circularity potential of the electric outboard as a whole, and (ii) the circularity performance of the two most impactful components, based on the LCA results: the electric motor unit and the lithium-ion battery pack. In all, the practice sessions supported the generation of strategic and operational ideas to improve the circularity of the electric outboard. As the industrial participants found both frameworks easy to use and efficient, all the details and resources used to conduct, replicate, or adapt such workshops in other industrial contexts are shared.

Bridging the green talent gap: a case study of product design education

“…Innovative and adaptive design solutions are continuously sought to meet environmental objectives and consumer needs. Studies highlight the importance of integrating a sustainability perspective from the early SPD stages, ensuring that products balance immediate use and a sustainable future (Saidani et al, 2023;Zafarmand et al, 2003).…”

“…This predictive approach is essential for enhancing the overall sustainability of the product development process (Ford & Despeisse, 2016). AM processes can be made even more sustainable by incorporating LCA and circular economy indicators, as suggested by Saidani et al (2023). AM is not only capable of achieving the aesthetic aspects of sustainable product design by integrating natural forms and simplicity, but it is also essential for creating sustainable, functional, and visually appealing products, as emphasized by Zafarmand et al (2003).…”