In this section we will evaluate the recyclability of two products to learn more about how Design for Recycling guidelines can be applied in practice. To do so, we have dismantled and photographed a faulty vacuum cleaner and a broken electric kettle. They are pictured below. We deliberately chose End of Life products, since this is the condition that most products are in once they arrive at a recycling facility. Their designs are dated, and the products themselves are often broken or dirty and show signs of heavy use.
Exterior of Vacuum Cleaner
Exploded view to illustrate the build of the vacuum cleaner
Exterior of the electric kettle
Exploded view to illustrate the build of the electric kettle
In this first assignment you will assess the design of the vacuum cleaner and that of the electric kettle based on these guidelines.
Complete the following steps:
- Revisit the DfR guidelines in unit 2.2 and read them carefully.
- Examine the detailed images of both products (on the following pages) closely. Each image will show a design decision that either positively or negatively impacts recyclability.
- Then reflect on the following questions for each image:
- Which design choice is shown on the image? Does it improve or decrease the recyclability of the product?
- Explain why.
- Verified learners: Enter your answers in the open response box and complete the self-assessment to mark your own work.
- All learners: Enter your answers and reflections on the discussion board.