Ecodesign in project management: a missing link for the integration of sustainability in product development?

Abstract

Although ecodesign is a well-defined concept in the literature, the potential exists to increase its use and effectiveness in practice and in the company context. By searching for new approaches that could foster ecodesign application, this article explores the points of intersection between ecodesign and project management. The research approach combines a systematic literature review with a case study conducted at a consumer goods manufacturer that is recognised as a relevant benchmark in sustainability commitment and practices. The analysis of the literature reveals that project management principles are addressed in a limited manner in specialised articles on ecodesign, and no specific articles on project management were found that address issues of environmental product development and environmental sustainability. The case study indicates that environmental requirements interfere with project management, thus creating new challenges for the project teams. This study reveals that the gap identified between the two areas of knowledge can be considered as a missing link that, if filled, could enhance the effectiveness of ecodesign in the product development process. This new link would complement the current ecodesign approaches that focus on technical tools and organisational aspects by introducing original and useful guidelines for sustainable project management