Optimize Product Durability to Transcend Take, Make and Waste

The ’take-make-waste’ economy perpetuates a linear model where resources are taken and made into products that are only used briefly and then thrown away. But as landfills run out of space and consumers call for more sustainable goods, producers and manufacturers have to consider a product’s impact during its use and, eventually, its end of life — defined as scope 3 emissions¹. Leaving behind a throw-away mindset starts with making more durable products that can be maintained, reused and refurbished. To get this right, you need actionable insights from data analytics.

Product data often resides in design files, production datasets, machine log information, social media posts and customer relationship management systems. Integrating the data onto a single dashboard helps companies understand quality issues and extend the life of products, either by analyzing real-time customer reviews and offering aftersales support or upgrading future designs to increase product longevity. Data analysis reinforces decision-making so companies can reduce waste and execute decarbonization strategies.

Click on the infographic below to learn more about how advanced analytics enable high-quality products in line with a circular economy.

Feedback from closed loops is especially crucial for service-based business models offering equipment as a service, where the cost of maintenance is absorbed by the company instead of the customer. Data analytics reveal abnormal behavior, recommend corrective actions and automate routine operations so companies can maximize the return from services such as vehicle leases or industrial equipment subscriptions. By designing for durability and easy repair, products retain value even with prolonged use. A platform approach gives companies visibility to initiate timely maintenance, cut costs and capitalize on equipment-as-a-service models.

Durable products not only stay in use longer; their high-quality components can be reused. This process — called remanufacturing — slashes energy demand by up to 80%². For example, an electronic device can be refurbished using a combination of reused, repaired and new parts before recovering and recycling its precious materials during disassembly. Remanufacturing preserves finite resources and enhances device longevity while presenting an economically viable alternative for eco-conscious customers.

Transcending the linear ‘take-make-waste’ economy means extending the life of products so they can be readily repaired, reused and remanufactured. With data analytics on the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform, companies can optimize product durability, upgrade the quality of refurbished goods and close the loop on waste.