Crafting a Digital Farewell
Designing for the Finish Line: End-of-Life Strategies in Technology In a world obsessed with innovation and "evergreen" products, it's easy to forget that everything eventually comes to an end. This applies especially to technology, where rapid advancements often leave older devices obsolete before their time. But what happens when our smartphones, laptops, and smart appliances reach the end of their life cycle? This is where thoughtful design for demise – or "design for end-of-life" (DFEOL) – comes into play. It's a crucial consideration that goes beyond simply creating functional products; it encompasses planning for responsible disposal, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring ethical material recovery. Why Design for Demise Matters: Environmental Impact: E-waste is a growing global concern, with landfills overflowing...