Publication
Title
Designing long-term reuse : uncovering motivators and barriers to sustained use of reusable alternatives to single-use products
Author
Abstract
Single-use products offer many advantages, thanks to their convenience, attractiveness, and effectiveness in protecting other products. However, they come at a steep cost to the environment and human health. Reusable alternatives can provide a sustainable solution, but ensuring their long-term usage poses challenges. This PhD research investigates motivators and barriers to the sustained use of these alternatives and aims to provide guidance for designers. The main research objectives are (i) understanding motivators and barriers to long-term usage, (ii) exploring variations in motivators and barriers across products, contexts, and users, and (iii) providing support for designers in developing products that enable long-term reuse. The research methodology includes qualitative and quantitative studies including interviews, surveys, and diary studies. The results indicate that motivators and barriers are related to either willingness, ability, or routine, all of which are necessary to increase the chances of successful long-term reuse. User segments and product categories are identified, guiding design interventions. After testing several preliminary tools for designing for long-term reuse, a framework was developed to assist designers in creating successful reusable solutions, highlighting the importance of tailoring interventions to different user types and product categories. Future research will involve testing the framework in workshops with design practitioners and other stakeholders. By bridging the gap between research and design implementation, this doctoral research contributes to the advancement of solutions for reducing waste and pollution associated with single-use products.
Language
English
Publication
Antwerpen : Universiteit Antwerpen, Faculteit Ontwerpwetenschappen, Departement Productontwikkeling , 2024
ISBN
978-90-5728-835-7
DOI
10.63028/10067/2043990151162165141
Volume/pages
232 p.
Note
Supervisor: Jacoby, Alexis [Supervisor]
Supervisor: Du Bois, Els [Supervisor]
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
Products as enablers for pro-environmental behaviour: investigation of reusable alternatives for single-use plastics.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Record
Identifier
Creation 13.03.2024
Last edited 17.06.2024
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